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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Mozambique

Mozambique is one of the fastest growing African vacation destinations. It is home to beautiful stretches of white sand beaches and pristine turquoise water. The waters are home to diverse marine animals and coral reefs.

The tropical climate makes it an ideal winter getaway. Besides marine activities, there are safari’s and historical monuments to explore. Mozambique offers travelers seeking an adventure plenty of opportunity to find one.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Mozambique? Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Mozambique Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mozambique Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mozambique? What Is the Climate Like in Mozambique? How Safe Is Mozambique? Bazaruto Archipelago What Should I Pack for Mozambique? U.S. Embassy to Mozambique

Do I Need Vaccines for Mozambique?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Mozambique. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Mozambique: typhoid , cholera , hepatitis A , polio , yellow fever , chikungunya , rabies , hepatitis B , influenza , COVID-19 , pneumonia , meningitis , chickenpox , shingles , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Areas of active transmission include Cabo Delgado and Nampula.
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers.
• Polio – Food & Water – Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Chikungunya – Mosquito – Limited cases reported since 2017, but the virus is considered endemic in northern regions. Vaccination is recommended for travel there.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Meningitis – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Specific Vaccine Information

• Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
• Cholera – Cholera, driven by Vibrio cholerae, is a dangerous waterborne disease. Contaminated water and food are primary sources of transmission. Preventive measures, including vaccination, focus on improving water quality, sanitation, and hygiene to combat this deadly illness.
• Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
• Polio – Polio is a highly infectious viral disease which leads to paralysis and sometimes death. The polio vaccine effectively prevents polio, and is key to global eradication efforts.
• Chikungunya – Chikungunya, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can be prevented by using insect repellents or netting. Vaccination provides the best form of protection.
• Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are preventable diseases that require a proactive approach through vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is a powerful tool in stopping the transmission of these viruses. Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks.

Polio immunization is not recommended for Mozambique. But, a polio booster for adults may be recommended for surrounding countries

Traveler’s diarrhea can easily ruin a trip. Be sure to bring a traveler’s diarrhea kit with you to avoid this embarrassing symptom.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Mozambique

Prevent bug bites in mozambique.

Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.

Food and Water Safety in Mozambique

Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travelers’ diarrhea , follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.

Altitude Sickness in Mozambique

Altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headaches and fatigue, occurs at high elevations due to oxygen deficiency. To prevent it, ascend gradually, hydrate sufficiently, and consider medication. If symptoms emerge, promptly descend to lower altitudes for recovery.

Infections To Be Aware of in Mozambique

• African Tick-Bite Fever – ATBF, transmitted by ticks in sub-Saharan Africa, can be prevented by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks. For additional protection, inquire about available options from healthcare experts before traveling to affected areas.
• Dengue – Dengue fever, caused by Aedes mosquito bites, poses a significant global health risk. Preventative measures, including avoiding mosquito bites, are crucial due to the lack of direct antiviral treatments.
• Rift Valley Fever – Rift Valley Fever spreads through mosquito bites and contact with infected animal tissues. Vaccination of livestock, mosquito control, and public health education are key measures to prevent RVF transmission to humans.
• Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection transmitted through contaminated water. Avoiding contact with infected water sources and using protective clothing can reduce the risk of infection. Seeking medical evaluation promptly if symptoms such as fever and fatigue manifest enables timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications and promoting recovery.

Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mozambique

• Polio – At least one case of polio was reported in Mozambique over the last 12 months. The CDC and WHO advise all travelers to ensure their polio vaccination history is up-to-date. Adults who previously received a full set of polio vaccinations may need a single, lifetime booster dose.
• Cholera – A cholera outbreak that started in 2022 has continued to grow in Mozambique. Over 5,000 cases of cholera have been reported so far. Travelers to the region should receive the cholera vaccine and take food safety precautions while in the country.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mozambique?

A visa is required for entry to Mozambique. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required based on your country of origin.

Sources: Embassy of Mozambique and U.S. State Department

There are currency restrictions for travelers upon entry and exit.

What Is the Climate Like in Mozambique?

Mozambique is a warm and humid country with a tropical climate. Its most popular tourist destinations are usually warm to hot throughout the year, with both wet and dry seasons. Maputo, the capital city, is in the south and is hot and humid throughout the year, with heavy rainfall between October and April. Tofo Beach, another popular destination in the south, is also hot and humid year-round. The wet season runs from November to April and the dry season from May to October.

The Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of islands off the southern coast, has warm and sunny weather throughout the year. The wet season runs from December to March, and the dry season runs from April to November. Pemba, in the northern part of the country, also experiences hot and humid weather year-round, with the wet season running from December to March and the dry season running from April to November.

Mozambique’s most popular tourist destinations are warm to hot throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons.

How Safe Is Mozambique?

Mozambique can be an unsafe place for travelers, so it’s important to take steps to stay safe. Here are some tips:

• Stay informed : Learn about the safety situation in Mozambique before you go and while you’re there.
• Choose safe accommodations : Stay in secure hotels or accommodations with security measures like guards and cameras.
• Be cautious when traveling : Be aware of your surroundings, don’t travel alone at night, and use trusted transportation.
• Carry identification : Carry a form of identification with you at all times, like your passport or ID card.
• Keep valuables safe : Keep your valuables, like your money and passport, in a safe place.
• Respect local customs : Dress appropriately and don’t show off expensive things like jewelry or electronics.
• Follow local laws : Obey the laws of Mozambique, especially regarding drugs and weapons.
• Seek help if you need it : In an emergency, contact the local authorities or your embassy. Keep their information handy.

Remember, the safety situation in Mozambique can change quickly, so stay informed and be ready to adjust your plans.

Bazaruto Archipelago

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of six islands off the coast of Mozambique. These islands are known for their stretches of white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters. Beneath the water lies beautiful coral reefs that rare marine animals call home.

A diverse array of animals found only in Bazaruto, like the rare dugong.

Visitors to the Bazaruto Archipelago can partake in a variety of outdoor activities such as scuba diving, fishing, and sailing. To limit environmental damage, visitors must stay in one of the several private lodges on the island. The Bazaruto Archipelago is the perfect Indian Ocean adventure.

What Should I Pack for Mozambique?

Mozambique is a beautiful destination. But, it does require some extra preparation. See what you should make sure is in your luggage:

• Mosquitoes are a problem in Mozambique and repellent should always be worn, especially after sunset.
• Extra memory cards and batteries for your camera as these can be difficult to find while traveling.
• Avoid wearing blue or black clothing. The tsetse flies are attracted to these colors.
• Consider bringing a headlamp. Power outages are not uncommon in Mozambique.
• Lightweight clothing that is suitable for hot weather.
• Water can be expensive and drinking the tap water is not encouraged. Consider bringing a water filter or iodine tablets.

U.S. Embassy to Mozambique

The U.S. embassy in Mozambique offers many services for American citizens and Mozambican citizens who want to travel to the United States. These services include helping American citizens with emergency situations, renewing passports and providing emergency assistance.

If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Mozambique, there is a U.S. embassy in the capital city of Maputo.

U.S. Embassy Maputo Avenida Marginal, 5467 Maputo, Mozambique Telephone:+(258) 84-095-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:+(258) 85-591-1911

Visit the Embassy to Mozambique website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!

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Mozambique Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 31, 2023, mozambique - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Mozambique due to health issues , crime and terrorism . Some areas have greater risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Certain districts in Cabo Delgado Province due to  terrorism .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Pemba, the provincial capital of Cabo Delgado, due to threat of terrorism.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as mugging, is common.

Terrorist groups in northern Mozambique continue to be active. Public areas may be attacked with little or no warning.

Mozambique’s health infrastructure is limited: there are only three doctors per 100,000 people, frontline health providers are often poorly trained, and medicine shortages are common. More than 1.2 million people in Mozambique have HIV/AIDS, representing a sizable population with compromised immune systems. In the event of a public health emergency, access to an ICU and ventilator support is highly unlikely.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mozambique.

If you decide to travel to Mozambique:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Consider hiring a professional security organization if traveling to the affected areas of Cabo Delgado.
• Be aware of increased government security checkpoints in Cabo Delgado Province.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mozambique.
• Have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Certain districts in Cabo Delgado Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorists continue to conduct and plot attacks on government forces, villages, and key supply routes in the districts of Ancuabe, Chuire, Ibo, Macomia, Meluco, Metuge, Mocimboa da Praia, Mueda, Muidumbe, Nangade, Palma, and Quissanga in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. 

Pemba, Capital of Cabo Delgado Province – Level 3:  Reconsider Travel   

Terrorist attacks in multiple districts in Cabo Delgado Province present the possibility that the provincial capital of Pemba is vulnerable to attack due to the proximity of violent extremist forces and their increasing sophistication.  

 Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

Travel Advisory Levels

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Mozambique Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Mozambique

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Mozambique entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Mozambique from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mozambique.

Can I travel to Mozambique if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Mozambique without restrictions.

Can I travel to Mozambique without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Mozambique without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Mozambique?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Mozambique.

Can I travel to Mozambique without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Mozambique?

Mask usage in Mozambique is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Mozambique?

Restaurants in Mozambique are open. Bars in Mozambique are .

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Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Mozambique is currently experiencing a cholera outbreak in central and northern areas of the country. See information on cholera .

Emergency medical number

Call 08911, 21313103 or 21322222 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Health risks and recommended vaccines

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Mozambique guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Mozambique

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Mozambique where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Mozambique .

Hospital facilities are of a lower standard compared to the UK, especially in the north of the country. In cases of serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to South Africa or the UK may be necessary.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Mozambique
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Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com July 20, 2022

By Kiwi.com | July 20, 2022

This article was published on July 20, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Mozambique?

Mozambique is open for tourism to all countries. However, please be aware that several COVID-19 restrictions are in place now. 

Can I enter Mozambique if I am vaccinated?

You can enter Mozambique if you are fully vaccinated. You are considered fully vaccinated if you have received both doses of double-dose vaccination at least 14 days before entering Mozambique.

As of May 2022, two vaccine drugs are approved in Mozambique:

• Oxford, AstraZeneca 
• Sinopharm BBIBP 

Travel documents if you are vaccinated

• A certificate confirming your vaccination status

Children under the age of 11 are exempt from vaccination demands.

Can I enter Mozambique if I am unvaccinated?

You can enter Mozambique if you are unvaccinated. 

Travel documents if you are unvaccinated

• A PCR negative test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in Mozambique

Please, be aware if you have proof of recovery from COVID-19, you are also obliged to present the test. Children under the age of 11 are exempt from testing.

A negative PCR test is valid for up to 7 days for travelers using the South Africa land border.

Who cannot enter Mozambique?

As of May 2022, all visitors are welcome in Mozambique, provided they have fulfilled the entry rules mentioned above, as well as common visa requirements. 

Can I leave Mozambique?

You can leave Mozambique. Take your time to check the requirements concerning covid tests for vaccinated travelers of your destination country in advance.

Can I leave Mozambique if I am vaccinated?

There are no restrictions for vaccinated travelers leaving Mozambique.

Travel documents if I am vaccinated

• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format

Can I leave Mozambique if I am unvaccinated?

Unvaccinated travelers can leave Mozambique

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country)
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country )

COVID-19 situation in Mozambique currently

Most countries currently categorize Mozambique as a “high risk” area. However, starting from January 2022, some tighter covid restrictions have made international travel safer. 

Is it safe to travel to Mozambique right now?

Travel to Mozambique is safe provided you follow local COVID-19 regulations. Currently, the COVID-19 regulations are basic, namely:

• Cover your face with a mask
• Maintain a social distance
• Stay home if you feel symptoms of the illness

Is Maputo open to travel?

Maputo is open to travel. When staying in the capital, please note that COVID-19 regulations here are the same as in the rest of the country; make sure to follow them.

Do I have to quarantine if I go to Mozambique?

You do not need to get quarantined upon arrival in Mozambique.

How do I get a health pass to travel to Mozambique?

It is recommended to carry a few printed-out copies of your COVID-19 papers.

Useful link:

• Travel advice on entering Mozambique

Visit our   Travel Restrictions section at Kiwi.com Stories   to read   more travel restrictions articles

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There's another COVID variant you should know about: KP.3 now makes up 25% of COVID cases

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows that a new COVID variant, the KP.3 variant , is rising to dominance across the United States.

For the two-week period starting on May 26 and ending on June 8, the government agency data shows that KP.3 accounts for 25% of COVID cases in the U.S. and is now the dominant variant. This knocks down previous frontrunner, the JN.1 variant , which spread globally last winter, and now makes up 22.5% of cases.

The CDC uses Nowcast data tracker to project the COVID variants over a two-week period. The tool is used to help estimate current prevalence of variants, but does not predict future spread of the virus, the CDC said.

Could there be a summer surge?: New COVID-19 FLiRT variants are now the dominant variant.

What is the KP.3 variant?

Like JN.1 and "FLiRT" variants KP.1.1 and KP.2, KP.3 is a similar strand.

USA TODAY reached out to the CDC for more information on the variant but have not heard back.

State of COVID cases in US

Although the rates for deaths and hospitalizations have declined significantly, the data also shows that the rates for positive tests and emergency room visits are on the rise.

The CDC recently reported on June 4 that "COVID-19 infections are growing or likely growing in 30 states."

COVID fall vaccine will target JN.1

The dominant emergence of the KP.3 variant comes on the heels of an FDA panel meeting this week to discuss updates to a COVID vaccine for the fall.

During the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee , health experts from vaccine manufacturers Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax each told the panel they were prepared to make JN.1-targeted vaccines available in August pending FDA approval.

The updated vaccines are set to be  released in the fall , ahead of expected winter upticks in COVID-19 cases.

Contributing:   Eduardo Cuevas , USA TODAY.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter) .

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Sierra Leone Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Sierra Leone. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio May 23, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Sierra Leone.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Sierra Leone.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Sierra Leone take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Sierra Leone.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Sierra Leone poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Sierra Leone are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Sierra Leone who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Sierra Leone.

If rabies exposures occur while in Sierra Leone, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see  country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for all arriving travelers.

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite

Avoid animals

• Touching infected animals (including bats and primates) or their body fluids
• Touching body fluids (blood or sweat) from an infected person
• Touching objects contaminated with the body fluids of a person infected with Ebola or Marburg virus
• Avoid sick people
• Avoid animals and areas where they live

Ebola virus

Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever

Marburg virus

• Scratched or bitten by an infected animal such as a rodent or primate
• Touching an infected animal or touching animal products, including skins and meat
• Being near an infected person who is coughing or sneezing
• Touching the body fluids or rash of a person with monkeypox
• Avoid animals and animal products
• Avoid people who are sick

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live

Lassa Fever

• Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats
• Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids

Lassa fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Sierra Leone, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Sierra Leone. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Sierra Leone include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Sierra Leone. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Sierra Leone’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Sierra Leone. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Sierra Leone may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Sierra Leone, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Sierra Leone for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Stopping an Outbreak in Its Tracks: Polio Response in Mozambique

In 2022, in addition to multiple health, humanitarian, and environmental issues facing the country, Mozambique was found to be the epicenter of an outbreak of wild poliovirus first detected in Malawi. CDC's Global Immunization Division helped the country respond to the outbreak.

The return of wild polio

An outbreak among outbreaks.

The year 2022 began the way Jolene Nakao, MD, MPH expected it to be – busy.

Nakao serves as senior advisor for public health response in CDC's country office in Mozambique . That year, she was supporting the country in responding to a whole list of health issues, including:

• the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic
• continued cases of HIV across the country
• a humanitarian crisis in the north
• the annual occurrence of tropical storms

Later that year, the country also experienced an outbreak of cholera.

"Our colleagues in the health sector are responding continuously to a variety of health implications of disasters and outbreaks themselves," she said.

Under those hectic conditions, another threat emerged – polio.

The first case of wild polio in decades

The region of Southeastern Africa had not seen a case of wild polio since the 1990s. The entire continent of Africa was declared free of wild polio in 2020.

However, in February 2022, health workers detected a case of paralysis from wild polio in Malawi, which shares a border with Mozambique.

The detection of the disease in Malawi put countries in the region on alert for polio. Ultimately, eight cases were confirmed in Mozambique as a result of the wild poliovirus outbreak. Mozambique was later discovered to be the epicenter of that outbreak.

Compounding the problem

In addition, Mozambique was also experiencing the spread of poliovirus variants , which occur when not enough people are immune to polio. In fact, 26 cases of paralysis resulted from two poliovirus variants in Mozambique in 2022. 1

To keep polio from spreading further and causing additional cases of paralysis, more than 6 million children needed to receive multiple doses of polio vaccines in Mozambique. Furthermore, local health workers needed training (preferably in Mozambique's official language, Portuguese) on how to spot polio and what to do from there.

Nakao needed backup (and fast).

A rapid and tailored response

Fortunately, CDC's Global Immunization Division (GID) could help. Leading CDC's response to the wild polio outbreak in Africa, medical officer Elizabeth "Liz" Davlantes, MD coordinated:

Portuguese-speaking staff

CDC staff who spoke Portuguese made a total of 24 deployments to Mozambique. This was an unprecedented response, given the relatively small number or Portuguese speakers across the agency.

Technical assistance

CDC provided scientific insight and guidance on polio to both deployers and to health workers in the country.

Engagement with partners

To respond to the outbreak, CDC coordinated with the other partners of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) . Together, the partners organized and supervised six rounds of mass polio vaccination campaigns for Mozambican children in 2022.

Spotting cases

CDC assisted local health partners – who worked mostly on other diseases – in detecting cases of polio (known as "surveillance").

"Local partners are eyes on the ground," said Nakao. "What is surveillance? It's just detection of potential cases of polio. What does that look like? A child who was walking yesterday and is not walking today."

Optimizing the response

CDC deployers brought unique skills to the response, including expertise in detecting poliovirus in wastewater (known as "environmental surveillance").

However, a key challenge for the polio response in Mozambique was how long the deployed staff could remain in the country. Typically, CDC emergency deployments last about a month. In this case, that was just long enough for staff to learn the nuances of the outbreak and the country context.

Davlantes addressed this challenge, deploying some CDC staff multiple times to ensure continuity and hiring local Mozambican public health professionals for longer-term contracts.

"These contractors are serving as polio technical specialists, funded by CDC, who are providing continuous technical assistance to our national- and provincial-level health counterparts as they continue to try to maintain and further strengthen polio surveillance in the provinces," explained Nakao.

In addition to polio surveillance, the contractors are assisting with additional rounds of the polio vaccination campaign. They also collaborate with local partners to spread the message about the risk of polio and the importance of vaccinating children to prevent paralysis.

Lasting benefits

These efforts to stop polio have made 2023 a much less eventful polio year for Mozambique.

Thanks in part to CDC, there were no confirmed cases of wild poliovirus in Mozambique in 2023. 2 In spite of the outbreak, Africa's "wild polio-free" status remains in place. The spread of poliovirus variants 1 in the country has also slowed significantly (but still remains a problem).

Beyond addressing the outbreak, CDC provided additional benefits to the country, as well as to CDC's polio eradication effort overall. Lasting benefits included:

Newly developed expertise in Mozambique

After working with staff of the GID and other GPEI partners, Mozambique-based staff now have the knowledge and tools to fight polio – including how to leverage their existing resources and relationships to respond to an outbreak.

Newly developed expertise at CDC

Since Portuguese-speaking deployers came from different parts of CDC, those staff now have invaluable experience with polio eradication techniques. These include surveillance strengthening and vaccine campaign oversight. CDC’s polio program can leverage this newly developed expertise to fight future outbreaks in Portuguese-speaking countries.

Renewed attention to other health priorities

With so many people coming into the country or being trained in the country to respond to polio, CDC’s country office in Mozambique could continue its focus on other pressing health priorities like cholera, COVID-19, and HIV.

Enhanced CDC readiness

The wide presence of deployers throughout the country – and the length of time they were able to spend there – provided critical insights into the specific challenges facing Mozambique, which will inform future responses to multiple health threats.

Lessons learned

Prioritizing mozambique.

The experience in Mozambique helped draw CDC's attention to some of the broader immunization challenges in the country. As a country experiencing a polio outbreak, GID has designated Mozambique one of its priority countries .

As such, Mozambique will receive additional immunization support, which will help not only the response to polio, but also to other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Preventing future outbreaks

As the experience in Mozambique demonstrates, polio outbreaks demand a rapid response – with as many responders as possible – to keep the disease from emerging again.

"This is a preventable disease," said Nakao. "We have known methods to prevent what could be a very debilitating illness, the repercussions of which can have lifelong implications for oftentimes somebody very young with a bright future ahead of them."

Continued vigilance and vaccination are necessary to prevent future cases of paralysis in Mozambique – and to allow health workers in the country to focus on its many other health priorities.

• Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Variant Polio (cVDPV) Cases. Data from WHO as of February 6, 2024.
• Global Polio Eradication Initiative. List of wild poliovirus by year and country. Data from WHO as of February 6, 2024.

Global Immunization

CDC's Global Immunization Division (GID) works to protect people worldwide from vaccine-preventable diseases, disabilities, and death.