Risk / Health Info for Zambia

What vaccines should I get for Zambia?

The health requirements for Zambia may seem complex, but our experts can advise you. There have been outbreaks of cholera that are linked to street food, so exercise caution if eating in markets. You can also protect yourself with a cholera vaccine. Two more vaccines that will help protect you from GI illnesses are hepatitis A and typhoid.

Are you at risk from exposure to hepatitis B on your trip to Zambia? A vaccine is available and is particularly recommended for the following groups of travellers: children, frequent and long-stay travellers, and anyone working in healthcare. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures. If any of this sounds like it applies to you, ask your healthcare advisor if you need to be vaccinated against hep B before you go to Zambia.

Rabies occurs in Zambia and if you are going to a remote region or if you will be around animals, particularly bats and dogs, consider getting vaccinated against rabies. Children should also get the rabies vaccine as they may get bitten while playing with animals, often on the face or neck. Seek urgent medical advice about an animal bite or scratch in Zambia, even if you have been vaccinated.

Do you need a yellow fever certificate in Zambia? The answer is yes. Your certificate is proof of immunity and the vaccine should give you lifelong immunity. So long as you keep the certificate safe, you will never need to get another one.

What medical facilities are there in Zambia?

You should carry your own sterile medical equipment as healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas, are poor. Travel Insurance is vital if you are going to Zambia in case you need to be evacuated for treatment.

The emergency number in Zambia is 999.

Can I bring my normal medications to Zambia?

Customs officers will ask to see your prescriptions, so have these ready when you arrive. You may find it hard to get supplies of medicines in Zambia so bring enough for your entire trip.

Malaria in Zambia

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Zambia at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Schistosomiasis in Zambia

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Zambia. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

cholera in Zambia

typhoid in Zambia

polio in Zambia