Intel: Immunizations for Africa
Some places require a shot to enter
Before Covid, talking about immunizations for exotic diseases to go somewhere seemed far-removed. Getting the Yellow Fever shot often left patients with a few days of flu-like symptoms, rarely heard of for most any other shots – so taking it was nerve-racking. My how things have changed.
Of course, taking necessary, voluntary precautions can help keep you healthy and free of diseases that plague and cripple other parts of the world, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Some countries in the world require certain immunizations to even let you in. A Yellow Fever vaccine is needed to visit Rwanda, Kenya, Congo and Cote d’Ivoire among others…but not South Africa. Good thing that you only need the shot once in your life.
Luckily, South Africa is far enough south and developed enough to have fewer risks.
The CDC is always your best source for searching what immunizations are recommended or required for travel.
For Cape Town, the CDC recommends:
- Your standard shots recommended everywhere, plus
- Hepatitis A and B immunizations (these are a series of shots taken over time)
- Luckily, Malaria, Cholera, and Yellow Fever aren’t much of a concern in the Cape province
Planning in advance is certainly recommended. Ask your doctor if they can order these shots for you, as most do not carry these in stock. If you are lucky enough to live in New York City, we love Traveler’s Medical Service as a one-stop shop. (unfortunately its DC branch closed)
Photo Source: LinkedIn
In each publication, Syllogi will share various tips, resources, and other odd bits of helpful information we have happened across in our research.
