Ethiopia is a landlocked country in the horn of Africa, surrounded by Djibouti, Eritrea, South Sudan, Somalia and Kenya.
Keep up-to-date with the latest travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) before travelling to Ethiopia.
The table below provides a general guide as to the Travel Vaccinations that may be advised to you for travel to Ethiopia.
| Vaccination | All Travellers | Most Travellers | Some Travellers | Major Risk Factors | Course | Price Per Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMR | Yes | Person-to-Person | Measles, mump, rubella, course of Two | £50 | ||
| DTaP | Yes | Person-to-Person | Tetanus, diphtheria, polio,s Dose | £40 | ||
| Typhoid | Yes | Contaminated Food and Water | Typhoid, Single Dose | £50 | ||
| Hepatitis A | Yes | Contaminated Food and Water | Hepatitis A, Single Dose | £80 | ||
| Meningitis | Yes | Person-to-Person | Meningitis ACWY (Nimenrix), Single Dose | £65 | ||
| Cholera | Yes | Contaminated Food and Water | Cholera, Course of Two | £35 | ||
| Hepatitis B | Yes | Body Fluids, Medical Intervention | Hepatitis B, Course of Three | £55 | ||
| Yellow Fever | Yes | Mosquitoes | Yellow Fever, single Dose | £70 | ||
| Rabies | Yes | Infected Animals | Rabies, Course of Three | £65 |
The Vaccinations and Medications that are needed for travel vary from person-to-person. Everyone should have a personal risk assessment with a travel health professional to take into account a range of factors such as itinerary, medical condition, occupational and lifestyle risk factors and previous vaccination history.
All Travellers should ensure that they are up-to-date with Routine Vaccinations including Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio and Measles, Mumps and Rubella.
Most travellers will also need to consider a course or booster of Hepatitis A and Typhoid as there is a risk of these diseases across most parts of the world.
Some Travellers may also be advised additional vaccinations such as Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis and Hepatitis B based on their individual risk assessment.
Malaria is a viral illness spread by Mosquitoes that bite from dusk to dawn throughout the tropical world. It causes high fever and severe joint and muscle pains. In serious cases, malaria can be fatal.
Travellers to areas where there is a Risk of Malaria should get advice regarding Malaria Medication which can be taken to help stop the illness from developing. The type of medication required depends on your destination, itinerary, length of stay and current medical condition. Further reduce the risk of by practicing mosquito Bite Avoidance by using Insect Repellant such as DEET 50% and covering exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers.
Under International Health Regulations (2005), travellers who have been to an Area affected by Yellow Fever, or who have travelled via an airport of a country affected, are required to present an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICVP) before they are allowed to enter Ethiopia.
Ethiopia
This horn of Africa country is considered one of the most densely populated landlocked countries on Earth. Scientist also consider it to be a ‘cradle of life’ the oldest place where human life can be traced to – all the way back to 2nd millennium BC. Ethiopia is a historic country showcasing many ancient traditions, some of which have remained the same for over 1000 years. Although a poor country, Ethiopia is on the road to recovery but getting around can still be a little complicated, so come prepared. Also, check the Foreign Office advice before travelling to Ethiopia as travel advice on this country does change from time to time.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever precautions should be taken for travel to Ethiopia. Dengue fever is caused by mosquito bites from specific mosquitos most active during daylight. There is no medical protection against dengue fever. What you can do however is avoid mosquito bites and use mosquito repellent if travelling to affected areas.
Altitude Sickness
Due to the fact that some parts of Ethiopia extend higher than 2500m, altitude sickness may present a problem. You can obtain altitude sickness medication and practice appropriate acclimatisation and gradual ascents to counter altitude sickness. Your travel nurse will be able to discuss these with you.
Heat and Humidity
Some parts of Ethiopia enjoy a hot and humid tropical climate, while other parts can be classed as the hottest and driest places on earth. Make sure you take adequate sun protection measures such as staying hydrated, applying high SPF factor sunscreen, wearing a hat and staying out of the sun for extended periods of time.
Water Safe
Tap water in Ethiopia is not considered safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available.
Food and Drink
Be mindful of what food you eat, specifically things like salads that may be washed in tap water. It is disrespectful in this culture to eat with the left hand and if someone invites you to their home for a coffee, feel very special indeed as this is considered an honour.
Animals and Insects
Lots of different infections can be spread through insect bites, including Dengue Fever and Malaria both spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms can include fever, headache and severe joint, bone and muscular pain. Advice for dengue fever and malaria are listed above.
Health Insurance
Make sure you have health insurance in place that will cover the full range of activities you plan to undertake while abroad
Personal Safety
If you plan to hire a vehicle or to take part in trekking or other activities then always think of your own safety first. Road conditions vary across Ethiopia.
