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South Africa

South Africa is a diverse and vibrant country that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. From the stunning beaches of Cape Town to the wildlife-filled savannas of Kruger National Park, there is something for everyone. Visitors can explore the country's fascinating history by visiting museums and landmarks such as Robben Island and the Apartheid Museum. South Africa is also known for its delicious cuisine, world-renowned wines, and vibrant nightlife. With friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere, South Africa is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for an unforgettable experience.

South Africa Immunization Recommendations and Requirements

Before traveling, make sure you are up-to-date on all of your routine immunizations including influenza and COVID-19. Note that many vaccines that are now considered "routine" were not available until recent decades so you may not have received them at all, depending on your age and other factors.

Infants, 6 to 11 months old should receive one dose of MMR and Hepatitis A prior to visiting South Africa. This does not count toward routine childhood immunizations.

Cholera Vaccine

CDC recommendations

Active cholera transmission is widespread in South Africa. Cholera is rare in travelers. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.
Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission. The following areas do not have active cholera transmission: Cape Town, Durban, Kruger National Park, and Port Elizabeth.

About Cholera

Cholera can be a life-threatening disease caused by bacteria that is mainly spread through contaminated food and water. About 1 in 10 people infected with cholera experience severe symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, leg cramps and restlessness.

About the Cholera Vaccine

The cholera vaccine, Vaxchora, is a live, weakened form of cholera bacteria that is ingested in liquid form (rather than injected). The vaccine should be taken at least 10 days before travel to an area of active cholera transmission. The vaccine lasts about 3 to 6 months.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

CDC recommendations

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to South Africa.

About Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A causes liver inflammation. This highly contagious disease is spread through person-to-person contact and eating contaminated food and drink.

About the Hep A Vaccine

The hepatitis A vaccine is a two-dose series, given 6 months apart. Hepatitis A vaccine wasn't added to routine childhood immunizations in the U.S. until 2006. Side effects are usually mild (sore arm, mild fever) and will go away on their own.

Malaria Prescriptions

CDC recommendations

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of South Africa take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip.
Find country-specific information about malaria.

About Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite. Malaria can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases vomiting, diarrhea and jaundice also occur.

About Malaria Prescriptions

There is no vaccine for malaria available in the U.S. but several medications are available that act to prevent malaria infections when taken regularly, according to their designated schedule. The type of medicine prescribed depends on several factors, including age of patient and travel destination.

Rabies Vaccine

CDC recommendations

Rabid dogs are commonly found in South Africa. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in South Africa, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available.
Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.
Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include
Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
Visitors to rural areas
Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to South Africa.

About Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease spread through the bite of rabid animals. The rabies virus infects the brain and spine of mammals, ultimately leading to death. Once the disease is established there is no effective treatment and most people die from it.

About the Rabies Vaccine

A 2-dose pre-exposure rabies vaccine is available. The vaccine provides protection against rabies for up to 3 years.

Typhoid Vaccine

CDC recommendations

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

About Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is caused by salmonella bacteria spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms of typhoid fever include high fever, headache, stomach pain, and constipation or diarrhea.

About the Typhoid Vaccine

There are two typhoid vaccines available: a live, oral vaccine that is taken in the form of 4 pills over the course of a week and an injected inactivated vaccine. The vaccines should be taken (started in the case of oral typhoid) at least 2 weeks prior to travel if possible.

Yellow Fever Vaccine

CDC recommendations

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission.1

About Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause high fever, muscle pain, headache, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting. It can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), hence the name "yellow fever."

About the Yellow Fever Vaccine

The yellow fever vaccine is a one-time vaccine that confers life-long immunity to yellow fever virus. Many countries in Africa require proof of yellow fever immunity in order to travel. This requires that (a) yellow fever vaccine has been administered at least ten days prior to entry and (b) the international vaccination card has been properly filled out. The yellow fever vaccine is not available for infants under 9 months old. For travelers who are age 60 or over, or immune-compromised, a yellow fever waiver is often sufficient.

Talk to a travel health specialist

At Away Clinic we specialize in getting travelers ready for their trips to the world's most exotic destinations. We would be glad to assist you at the following locations:

Scottsdale, AZ

Chandler, AZ

To set up an appointment, see our self-scheduling page, call us at (480) 712-8865‬, or email us.

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(480) 712-8865‬

South Africa

South Africa Immunization Recommendations and Requirements

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(480) 712-8865‬

South Africa

South Africa Immunization Recommendations and Requirements

Talk to a travel health specialist

Check out our blog

Upcoming Trips

Our Travel Vaccine Clinics

Chandler, AZ Scottsdale, AZ

Sign up for travel health tips!

Chandler, AZ
Scottsdale, AZ