Introduction
Tanzania, in East Africa, warmly invites you to explore its natural wonders, diverse cultures, and abundant wildlife. From Kilimanjaro’s peaks to Zanzibar’s beaches, it’s a sensory treat for adventurous travelers.
Prioritize your well-being. Before your Tanzanian adventure, get essential health tips. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll enjoy a journey that enriches your soul and protects your health. So, embrace Tanzania’s beauty and let the adventure begin!
Tanzania Vaccine Recommendations
Before traveling to Tanzania, it is recommended to get vaccinated against yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies (Read more). Malaria is also prevalent in Tanzania, so it is important to take preventive measures such as taking antimalarial medication and using mosquito nets. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to get the necessary vaccinations and medications.
Hepatitis A
The CDC strongly advises getting the hepatitis A vaccine, as this virus can be contracted through contaminated food or water in Tanzania, regardless of where you are dining or staying.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products. Therefore, the CDC recommends this vaccine if you anticipate engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, getting a tattoo or piercing, or undergoing any medical procedures.
Cholera
While cholera is uncommon among travelers, it can be severe. Vaccination may be considered for adults traveling to areas with active cholera transmission in Tanzania. These areas include Arusha (last case reported April 2019), Dar es Salaam (last case reported July 2019), Songwe (last case reported March 2019), and Tanga (last case reported July 2019). Additionally, taking precautions such as avoiding unsafe food and water and practicing proper hand hygiene can help prevent cholera.
Typhoid
You can contract typhoid through contaminated food or water in Tanzania. The CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, particularly if you plan to stay with friends or relatives, visit smaller cities or rural areas, or if you consider yourself an adventurous eater.
Rabies
Rabies can be present in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Tanzania. The CDC recommends the rabies vaccine for the following groups:
- Travelers engaged in outdoor activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- Individuals working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People on extended trips or relocating to Tanzania.
- Children, as they are more likely to interact with animals and may not report bites, especially if they occur on the head or neck.
It is required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever virus transmission and are over one year of age, including transit periods exceeding 12 hours in an airport located in a country with a risk of Yellow Fever virus transmission. However, it is generally not recommended for travelers to Tanzania. Please note that the availability of the Yellow Fever vaccine in the United States is currently limited.
Prophylactic Medication Recommendation for Tanzania (Based on CDC Guidelines)
Malaria Prophylactic Medication options include Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone), Doxycycline, Mefloquine, or Tafenoquine. It is advised to avoid Chloroquine due to drug resistance.
Current Health Issues / Notifications for Tanzania
Dengue
Given that dengue is transmitted by mosquito bites, it is essential for all travelers visiting risk areas to take measures to prevent mosquito bites. This includes using an EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, and sleeping in an air-conditioned room, a room with window screens, or under an insecticide-treated bed net.
COVID-19
There is an ongoing community spread of respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) globally. Some countries are experiencing widespread and sustained spread. Older adults and individuals with serious chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of severe disease and should consider postponing nonessential travel. Travelers should avoid contact with sick individuals and practice thorough hand hygiene. If soap and water are not readily available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used. Travelers should monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning from travel. If a traveler becomes sick with symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, it is advised to stay home and contact healthcare providers in advance.
To get the most up-to-date CDC information regarding travel to Tanzania, including Zanzibar, kindly refer directly to the CDC’s official resources.