Do I Need to Take Malaria Pills or Get Certain Vaccinations for Uganda?
Yes. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry to Uganda, and malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Several other vaccinations are advised depending on your specific itinerary and medical history.
The yellow fever vaccine is required, not optional. You must present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination upon arrival. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel; the certificate is valid for life. Without this documentation, you may be denied entry or required to be vaccinated at the airport.
Malaria is present throughout Uganda, including all safari destinations. Prophylaxis options include atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone), doxycycline, or mefloquine. Consult a travel medicine specialist to determine which is appropriate for you, as each has different dosing schedules and potential side effects. Begin taking medication as directed before arrival and continue after leaving as prescribed.
The CDC also recommends vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid (food/waterborne diseases), as well as ensuring routine vaccinations are current, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, and polio. Hepatitis B and rabies vaccines may be recommended depending on activities planned.
Consult a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized recommendations. Bring sufficient prescription medications for your entire trip, as specific medications may not be available in Uganda.
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