Vaccinations Required for South Africa

Asia and Africa are the two continents where vaccinations are particularly important. In South Africa, whilst being much more developed than many other African nations, diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are prevalent. While it is not possible to vaccinate against HIV, it is important to be protected from illnesses that can be prevented by vaccination.

Required Vaccinations for South Africa

• Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for any travel outside the 'developed world'. One vaccination will provide twelve months of protection, a second dose 6-36 months later will ensure you are protected for at least twenty years. This is one of the vaccinations required for South Africa.

• Hepatitis B vaccinations may not be strictly necessary, but are advisable. If you are working in the health sector, working with children, performing high risk activities or repeatedly traveling to developing nations, Hepatitis B vaccination is highly recommended. Immunity to Hepatitis B requires three vaccinations over a six-month period (or an accelerated course - these offer twelve months of protection.

• Typhoid: Typhoid vaccinations are highly recommended. One dose will last three years. This is one of the vaccinations required for South Africa.

• Diphtheria: DPT (Diphtheria, Polio and Tetanus) injections are often received as a child. This vaccination is also highly recommended. Check with your doctor if you require this. If you have not had this injection, you should have three Revaxis. This should provide protection for ten years.

• Tuberculosis: Consult a doctor about whether this is necessary.

• Rabies: Advisable to protect against infection from rabid, warm-blooded creatures. Consult a doctor about whether this is necessary.

• Cholera: Consult a doctor about whether this is necessary.

• Yellow Fever: If arriving from a yellow fever infected area, a certificate of immunisation is required by South African authorities.

Protection against other diseases or infections

• HIV - Transmitted through blood and semen. Take adequate care to ensure you do not come into contact with the bodily fluids of others.

• Malaria - Protection from mosquitoes is essential, DEET insect repellent and mosquito nets are advised.

• Do ensure you see your doctor 3 months before travel to ensure you are fully protected and have all the vaccinations required for South Africa.