Vaccines for Tanzania
When planning a trip to East Africa, it’s crucial to safeguard your health in advance. From recommended vaccinations for Tanzania to key precautions, our experts answer the most common questions to ensure your journey is safe.
Get Ready For Your Tanzania Trip
Tanzania, a stunning country in East Africa, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Serengeti National Park to the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania offers an array of experiences for travellers. However, to fully enjoy your journey, it’s crucial to take necessary health precautions. Our travel vaccines for Africa service ensures you’re protected and ready for a safe and memorable trip to Tanzania.
What Are the Tanzania Vaccine Requirements?
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization recommend a number of vaccinations for Tanzania. As you plan your trip to West Africa, consult with Copperfield Travel Clinic. We will be your travel resource with tips and travel advice, as well as an accurate and up-to-date list of all recommended shots needed for Tanzania.
Recommended Vaccines for Tanzania
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, travellers to Tanzania should receive eight critical vaccinations.
Vaccine | Spread Through | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
the bite of an infected mosquito | travellers to regions where the risk of yellow fever is high | |
Meningococcal Disease | exchange of bodily fluids or through sexual contact
| travellers planning a long term stay or those who will be in close contact with the local population |
Hepatitis A | contaminated food and water | travellers eating or drinking in areas with poor sanitation |
Hepatitis B | infected blood or bodily fluids | travellers with prolonged stays or medical treatment |
Polio | contaminated food, water, and contact with an infected person | travellers headed where polio is still prevalent, especially in rural areas |
Rabies | the bite or scratch of an infected animal | travellers to remote areas and anyone planning to come in contact with wildlife, including dogs, cats, and livestock |
Typhoid | contaminated food, water, unwashed produce, and poor hygiene | recommended for travellers to areas with poor sanitation and travellers to rural areas or for extended periods |
Routine Vaccines for Tanzania
These are a standard set of vaccines for everyone as part of a regular healthcare schedule. They are essential for maintaining overall public health.
Vaccine | Spread Through | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
Chickenpox | respiratory droplets or direct contact with the rash | travellers who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine |
Diphtheria | respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes | travellers, particularly those visiting regions with low vaccination rates |
Influenza | respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes | all travellers, annually |
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) | respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes | travellers, especially those in close contact with infants or people with weakened immune systems |
Shingles | reactivation of the chickenpox virus in people who have previously had chickenpox | older adults and travellers who have had chickenpox, especially those over 50 |
Tetanus | through wounds contaminated with dirt, dust, or feces | travellers engaging in outdoor activities or in areas with limited access to medical care |
Measles Mumps Rubella | respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes | non-immune travellers |
Ideal Vaccination Timeline
6-8 Weeks Before | Plan to have an initial consultation 6-8 weeks in advance of your trip. If you are past this window, we still recommend booking a consultation so you can ensure maximum protection. |
4-6 Weeks Before | This is ideal timing for starting the Hep A/B vaccine series, rabies vaccine series, and Japanese encephalitis series.
|
2-4 Weeks Before | 2-4 weeks is the ideal timeline for most other vaccines, but some may be given with a shorter time before departure. |
1-2 Weeks Before | Get the flu shot if travelling during flu season. A certificate for Yellow Fever is considered valid 10 days after the vaccination is given, so consider this when travelling to Tanzania. |
Adventure is Only a Vaccine Away!
Book Your Tanzania Travel Vaccinations at Copperfield Travel Clinic
Non-Vaccine Preventable Diseases in Tanzania
Spread through an infected mosquito. Ask Copperfield Travel Clinic about anti-malarial medication.
Spread through contact with animal urine or contaminated water. Avoid swimming or wading in potentially contaminated water, and wear protective clothing and shoes
(African Trypanosomiasis)
Transmitted by tsetse fly bites. Wear long sleeves and use insect repellent.
Spread through tick bites. Wear long sleeves, tucked clothing, and use insect repellent.
Transmitted by mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and use insect repellent.
Spread through tick bites or contact with infected animal fluids.
Transmitted by mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, use mosquito nets, and avoid standing water.
Spread through mosquito bites or contact with infected animal fluids.
Contracted through contact with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. Avoid contact with rodents, and keep living spaces clean
Spread through the air from an infected person’s cough or sneeze. Avoid close contact and ensure good ventilation.
Contracted by wading or swimming in contaminated freshwater.
Take Precautions to Protect Your Health in Tanzania
Copperfield Travel Clinic offers comprehensive travel health services, including vaccinations, pre-travel consultations, and personalized health advice tailored to your destination.
To protect your health in Tanzania, use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites, drink only bottled or purified water, maintain good hygiene practices, and be cautious with food to avoid contamination. Additionally, avoid contact with stray animals and schedule your Calgary yellow fever vaccine if your travel plans include yellow fever risk areas. We are here to make your pre-travel plans stress-free so you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
- Book an Appointment
- Complete Pre-Travel Form
- Personalized Consultation
- Get Vaccinated
- Travel Health Advice
- Follow-Up Appointments (as needed)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Get a Hepatitis B Shot?
Yes, the hepatitis B shot is among the recommended vaccines for Tanzania. It is particularly advised for individuals who may have intimate contact with locals, require medical care, or engage in activities that could involve exposure to blood.
Is There Rabies in Tanzania?
Yes, rabies is present in Tanzania. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1,500 locals die each year from the disease. Vaccination is essential if you plan to engage in outdoor activities, work with animals, or stay in rural areas.
How Safe is Tanzania?
Tanzania is generally safe for travellers who take necessary health precautions and stay informed about the regions they plan to visit. Avoid isolated areas and be cautious in urban centres to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Does Tanzania Have COVID-19 Travel Restrictions?
As of 2024, Tanzania does not impose COVID-19 travel restrictions. However, all travellers entering or transiting mainland Tanzania are advised to be fully vaccinated against the virus for their health and safety.