Posts about Malaria
Tanzania Vaccinations and Health
Tanzania Vaccination Information
There are no vaccinations required for entry to Tanzania.
However, there are a number of vaccinations that are highly recommended.
Vaccinations Recommended for Tanzania
It is highly recommended that people traveling to Tanzania get the following vaccinations.
Yellow Fever
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
MMR
DPT
Rabies
Malaria (pills to take prior to, during, and after your trip to Tanzania if you travel to a malarial area)
To have the maximum benefit, go to a travel clinic at least four to six weeks prior to traveling to allow time for your vaccines to take effect.
Other Vaccinations and Additional Information
Tanzania requires travelers arriving from countries where yellow fever is present to carry proof of vaccination against yellow fever.
In addition to getting vaccinations for Tanzania, it is a good idea to pack plenty of anti-diarrheal tablets, OTC pain relievers, and a small first aid kit for Tanzania.
Malaria in Tanzania
Malaria Risk Zone in Tanzania
There is malaria risk in all of Tanzania at altitudes below 1,800 meters (5,900 feet). There is malaria risk in Dar Es Salaam, the Serengeti, and other game reserves in Tanzania.
Malaria Pills for Tanzania
In order to protect yourself against malaria while you are visiting Tanzania, you should visit a travel clinic before you travel to get antimalarial pills (often called ‘malaria pills’) and any vaccinations you need. Do not buy malaria pills in Tanzania, as they are not always reliable or safe.
The most common type of malaria pill is Malarone, but others are available as well. Do not take chloroquine as an antimalarial in Tanzania, as it is not effective in preventing malaria there.
Other Ways to Prevent Malaria in Tanzania
Malaria is carried by mosquitoes that come out at night. In order to protect yourself against mosquito bites, make sure to wear plenty of insect repellent when traveling in Tanzania.
Wear light-colored long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and closed-toed shoes with socks at night if you will be outdoors or in a building that has mosquitoes inside.
Pack a mosquito net to hang over your bed if you are staying in a hostel that has mosquitoes in the rooms. Most high-end hotels in Tanzania will have mosquito nets over the beds.