Africa Travel Vaccines & Health Tips
by: Dr. Paul Chang, General Practitioner, Regis Medical
Travel smart in Africa with vaccine advice, travel safety tips, and health prep from Regis Medical Singapore GP Doctors.
Why are more Singaporeans going to Africa?
From the vast savannahs of Kenya to the bustling markets of Morocco, Africa offers unforgettable wildlife, rich culture, and adventure — far from the usual tourist trail. In recent years, more Singaporeans have headed to Africa for safari holidays, volunteering, business, and cultural exploration. Popular destinations include South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Egypt, and Morocco — each offering a unique experience.
Best time to go:
- East & Southern Africa (e.g. Kenya, South Africa): June–October (dry season and best for safari)
- North Africa (e.g. Morocco, Egypt): March–May or September–November (cooler and less crowded)
Popular for:
- Safari tours and wildlife photography
- Cultural and historical sites (e.g., Pyramids of Giza, Stone Town)
- Volunteer programmes and NGO work
- Hiking, diving, and overland travel
Vaccines to Consider Before Going to Africa
Recommended Vaccines for Africa:
- Influenza Vaccine - Recommended throughout the year
- Hepatitis A – Highly recommended due to lower hygiene standards in food/water .
- Hepatitis B Vaccine - Especially for longer stays or medical/volunteer work.
- Typhoid Vaccine – Advised for rural travel or street food.
- Malaria Prophylaxis – Medication is recommended for most parts of Africa.
Mandatory Vaccines for Africa:
- Yellow Fever Vaccine – Mandatory for many African countries; proof of vaccination may be required at entry.
Routine Vaccines when travelling:
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before travelling to Africa.
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTAP)
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Shingles Vaccine
*For the latest and complete list of required or recommended vaccines for specific parts of Africa, please refer to official sources such as MOH, WHO, or CDC.
| Vaccine | Price | Recommended Dosage |
| Influenza | $45 | 1 dose annually, taken at least 2 weeks before travel |
| Hepatitis A | $88 | 2 doses, 6 months apart First dose at least 2 weeks before travel |
| Hepatitis B | $45 | 3 doses: at 0, 1, and 6 months Booster: at least 2 weeks before travel if previously vaccinated |
| Typhoid | $39 | 1 dose At least 2 weeks before travel |
| Yellow Fever | Coming soon | 1 dose At least 10 days before travel ICVP certificate required |
| Malaria Prophylaxis | Coming soon | Requires prescription prophylaxis medication. Start 1–2 days before travel Continue during & after travel |
Our doctor may recommend a serology (antibody) test to check your immunity levels. In some cases, a booster dose may suffice.
Prices are listed in SGD for 1 dose only and exclude GST. Mandatory consultation and administration charges apply.
*Prices last updated on 1 July 2024. Subject to change.
Pre-Travel Health Screening & Advice
Who should screen?
- Elderly
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Immunocompromised individuals
- First-time long-haul travellers
- Students, exchange programme
Suggested tests:
- Hepatitis A/B immunity check
- General health review if staying long-term or doing outdoor activities
- Glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure monitoring (especially for older travellers)
Pack These: Emergency Medications & Health Kit
For African travel, we recommend:
- Anti-diarrhoea meds (e.g., charcoal pills, loperamide)
- Malaria tablets (based on your destination – consult our GP)
- Antihistamines for bites or allergies
- Oral rehydration salts (important for hot climates and GI illness)
- Basic wound care (plasters, antiseptic cream, tweezers)
- Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Water purification tablets or a filtration bottle
- Tip: Bring your Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate at all times — vaccination proof may be requested at multiple checkpoints.
While You’re There: Protecting Your Health
Drink only bottled or purified water — avoid ice in drinks
Eat freshly cooked food from busy stalls; avoid raw or undercooked meat
Use insect repellent day and night — mosquitoes in Africa can carry malaria and dengue
Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening
Avoid swimming in freshwater lakes/rivers (risk of parasites like schistosomiasis)
In safari areas: follow wildlife safety guidelines strictly
In urban areas: be cautious with personal belongings and use licensed taxis
After You Return: Post-Travel Watchlist
Be alert for these symptoms within 2–4 weeks of return:
- Fever, chills, or body aches
- Persistent diarrhoea or vomiting
- Skin rash, yellowing of the eyes
- Unusual fatigue or headaches
If you’ve been to malaria-risk areas or rural regions, see a GP immediately if symptoms appear.
Travel Health Checklist
✅ Yellow Fever certificate (if required)
✅ Vaccines up to date
✅ Malaria meds packed
✅ Insect repellent & sunscreen
✅ Travel insurance arranged
✅ Nearest hospital bookmarked
✅ Emergency contact card prepared
Planning a trip to Africa?
Visit Regis Medical for a Pre-Travel Vaccines and Health Consult — personalised for your destination, itinerary, and health needs.
