South Africa
South Africa occupies the tip of Southern Africa with Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique as its neighbours.
Travel Vaccinations for South Africa
The table below provides a general guide as to the Travel Vaccinations that may be advised to you for travel to South Africa. 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 based on a risk assessment to include itinerary, current and past medical history and lifestyle .
| Vaccination | All Travellers | Most Travellers | Some Travellers | Major Risk Factors | Course | Price Per Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMR | Yes | Person-to-Person | MMR, Course of Two | £49 | ||
| DTaP | Yes | Person-to-Person | Revaxis, Single Dose | £39 | ||
| Typhoid | Yes | Contaminated Food and Water | Typhim Vi, Single Dose | £49 | ||
| Hepatitis A | Yes | Contaminated Food and Water | Epaxyl, Single Dose | £80 | ||
| Hepatitis B | Yes | Body Fluids, Medical Intervention | EnergixB, Course of Three | £55 | ||
| Rabies | Yes | Infected Animals | Rabipur, Course of Three | £65 |
Risk of Malaria in South Africa
Malaria is spread by the plasmodium parasite passed to humans from the bite of an anopheles mosquito. Malaria is a serious illness with symptoms include fever, chills, sweats and flu like symptoms. In severe cases, malaria can be fatal. There isn’t currently a vaccine available for our travellers, although there are other ways to protect yourself.
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 practising mosquito Bite Avoidance by using Insect Repellent such as DEET 50% and covering exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers.
Risk of Yellow Fever for South Africa
Yellow Fever is a serious viral illness spread by mosquitoes in the tropical regions of Africa and South America. For further information, please see Yellow Fever Vaccination.
Travel Health Resources for South Africa
Heat and Humidity
The South African climate is mostly temperate, with extreme heat in the South-West, coastal regions. Summer temperatures can rise to 33 or higher. Remember to apply sunblock (SPV at least 15). See Heat and Sunburn for further information.
Personal Safety
South Africa has a high level of crime. Travellers to tourist regions are generally safe, and the Authorities give high priority to the safety of tourists. Incidents of break-ins and robberies are common. Keep up-to-date with the latest travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) before travelling to South Africa.