Travel Vaccines and Advice for Burkina Faso
For travelers looking to explore a beautiful country, meet friendly locals, and explore different African cultures, Burkina Faso is a fantastic destination.
The capital city, Ouagadougou is known for its many musical events and gorgeous handmade items. In Ouaga, every odd-numbered year Fespaco, Africa’s premier film festival, is held.
But, recent terrorism alerts mean travelers should exercise caution when visiting.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Burkina Faso?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Burkina Faso
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Burkina Faso
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Burkina Faso?
What Is the Climate Like in Burkina Faso?
How Safe Is Burkina Faso?
Burkina Faso’s Banfora
What Should I Pack for Burkina Faso?
U.S. Embassy in Burkina Faso
Do I Need Vaccines for Burkina Faso?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Burkina Faso. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Burkina Faso: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, meningitis, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, 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 –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
The last major cholera outbreak in Burkina Faso was in 2005. But, cases are still reported each year. Vaccination may be recommended for travelers to the capital. - 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 region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months of age. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Since July 2023, a chikingunya outbreak has been occurring in Burkina Faso. Vaccination is recommended. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) - 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. - 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:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Burkina Faso |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | The last major cholera outbreak in Burkina Faso was in 2005. But, cases are still reported each year. Vaccination may be recommended for travelers to the capital. |
| 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 region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months of age. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Since July 2023, a chikingunya outbreak has been occurring in Burkina Faso. Vaccination is recommended. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) |
Routine Vaccinations for Burkina Faso |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, a bacterial infection, is primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, recommended for travelers to endemic regions and those at risk due to occupation.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Polio – Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that potentially leads to permanent paralysis. The polio vaccine provides highly effective immunity against the poliovirus.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever, caused by the yellow fever virus and primarily spread by infected mosquitoes, can be effectively prevented with vaccination. The yellow fever vaccine, with its long-lasting immunity, is essential for travelers to endemic areas and residents in regions where the disease is prevalent.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and reducing breeding sites. The chikungunya vaccine provides the best protection.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted through animal bites, affecting the nervous system. The rabies vaccine, given before or after potential exposure, prevents the virus from developing into active disease. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups like travelers, while post-exposure shots are crucial after suspected rabies exposure.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth. It can become chronic, leading to liver failure or cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine, given as a series of injections, effectively prevents this infection.
- Meningitis – Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord due to viral or bacterial infections. The meningitis vaccine protects against infection that results from certain types of bacterial meningitis.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Preventing their transmission is possible through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. This two-dose vaccine not only safeguards individuals but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within communities.
Yellow Fever in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso requires all travelers arriving to the country have proof of yellow fever vaccination. The CDC and WHO also recommend the vaccine for anyone who may be visiting the region.
Malaria in Burkina Faso
Malaria is widespread in Burkina Faso. Antimalarials are recommended for all travelers to the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often given to travelers to Burkina Faso. Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.
There is a risk of yellow fever in Burkina Faso. All travelers over the age of nine months must be vaccinated. The country requires all travelers entering to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Burkina Faso is in the meningitis belt, a region known for carrying the disease. Meningitis vaccination is recommended for travelers especially between December and June.
Typhoid vaccination is recommended for most travelers to Burkina Faso. Individuals visiting friends or family or going to rural areas are at a higher risk and should receive immunization.
Travelers should take antimalarial medication before, during, and after their trip. Travelers should also take steps to avoid mosquito bites.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Burkina Faso
Prevent Bug Bites in Burkina Faso
Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Burkina Faso
While dining abroad, prioritize food safety by avoiding street food, practicing hand hygiene, and selecting fully cooked dishes. Opt for sealed bottled or canned drinks. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by adhering to hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Infections To Be Aware of in Burkina Faso
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is caused by tick bites in sub-Saharan Africa. To prevent infection, wear long sleeves, use DEET-based repellents, and check for ticks regularly. Consult healthcare experts for advice if traveling to endemic regions.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick-borne viruses, necessitates protection against tick bites and strict infection control in healthcare.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. Symptoms can escalate from mild fever to life-threatening conditions. Preventing mosquito bites is key to avoidance, with recommendations including repellent and netting use.
- Lassa Fever – Lassa fever, caused by the Lassa virus, spreads via rodents and human-to-human transmission. Although no vaccine is licensed yet, prevention entails strict hygiene, rodent control, and healthcare safety measures.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease carried by sand flies, poses a substantial health risk. Effective prevention includes protective measures like using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during sand fly peak hours.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, caused by parasitic flatworms, is prevalent in areas with contaminated freshwater sources. Prevention involves staying out of potentially infected waters and using protective clothing. Recognizing symptoms such as fever and seeking medical help promptly is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
- Zika – Zika, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, can have severe consequences, especially for pregnant women. Prevention measures include using repellent, practicing safe sex, and removing mosquito breeding sites.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Burkina Faso
- Polio – At least one case of polio was reported in Burkina Faso 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.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Burkina Faso?
American travelers visiting Burkina Faso must have a valid passport and a visa to enter the country. All travelers must also show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Burkina Faso Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Burkina Faso? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
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| Tourist Visa | |
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| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Burkina Faso and U.S. State Department
Some visa types can be obtained on arrival. But, it is best to have your travel documents in-hand before entering the country.
What Is the Climate Like in Burkina Faso?
Burkina Faso is a country with a tropical climate that has two seasons: a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
The temperature is hot and consistent all year, with an average temperature ranging from the mid-90s to over 100 degrees.
Ouagadougou is the capital and largest city in Burkina Faso with hot and dry weather throughout most of the year. Bobo-Dioulasso is the second-largest city in Burkina Faso and has a milder climate than Ouagadougou.
Banfora is a popular tourist destination known for its waterfalls and natural beauty and has similar weather patterns as Bobo-Dioulasso. Gorom-Gorom, located in the north of Burkina Faso, is hot and dry throughout most of the year and is a popular base for exploring the Sahel region.
It’s important to note that weather patterns may vary from year to year. Visitors should check the local weather forecast before traveling and pack appropriate clothing.
How Safe Is Burkina Faso?
If you are planning to travel to Burkina Faso, there are some things you can do to stay safe.
It is important to research the country and check for any travel advisories. If possible, avoid traveling to high-risk areas, especially those near the borders with Mali and Niger. It is also important to stay in secure accommodations, like hotels with security personnel, and avoid traveling by road at night.
It’s a good idea to dress modestly and not draw attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. Be aware of your surroundings and follow local customs and laws. Always carry your passport and other important documents with you. You can also ask for advice from local authorities, like the police or hotel staff. Consider hiring a local guide to provide you with information on local customs, laws, and potential risks.
By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Burkina Faso.
Burkina Faso’s Banfora
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Many tourists visit Banfora because of its beautiful natural attractions and outdoor activities. Visitors can see waterfalls called Karfiguela, climb the rock formations called Sindou Peaks, and explore volcanic rock formations called Domes of Fabedougou. They can also visit a freshwater lake called Lake Tengrela and go fishing.
Banfora has a lively market where visitors can buy traditional crafts and food. A nearby wildlife reserve called Nazinga is home to many different kinds of animals such as elephants and antelopes. Visitors can take a safari tour to observe them.
Banfora is a unique and beautiful place that offers a lot of fun things to do for tourists.
What Should I Pack for Burkina Faso?
Burkina Faso is a beautiful country with much to offer visitors. But, it’s important you pack appropriately for your trip.
- Money Belt – Due to the crime levels in the country, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
- Plug Adapters – Burkina Faso uses the 2-pin French system for outlets.
- Water Bottle – It can get very hot and dry, so a water bottle is a must if traveling outside for long periods of time.
- Bug Repellent – There are plenty of mosquitoes in West Africa. Many mosquitoes carry diseases like malaria or yellow fever.
U.S. Embassy in Burkina Faso
When traveling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the U.S. embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
U.S. Embassy Ouagadougou
Secteur 53, Ouaga 2000
Avenue Sembène Ousmane, Rue 15.873
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Phone: +(226) 25-49-53-00
E-mail: amembouaga@state.gov
Visit the Embassy to Burkina Faso 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!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Burkina Faso
Overall rating: 5 stars – 2 reviews
★★★★★
“Travel shots made easy“
“This was so easy from start to finish. We are going to Burkina Faso, and I a needed yellow fever vaccination. When I called, they were able to accommodate my schedule at either clinic, and when the day of the appointment I had a conflict, they worked around it. Everyone was really friendly upon arrival, and I was advised that a meningitis vaccination was a good idea. OK! I got everything I need, and the nurse was great. Fast too.”
Submitted by: Meghan
★★★★★
“Fantastic Job!“
“When you say Burkina Faso most people will just stare and say “where” are you going? Here, every thing was prepared: booklet, vaccinations, medications, alternate suggestions, strategies, everything I needed. Shots were given in a blink of an eye with no pain.”
Submitted by: Natalie
“This was so easy from start to finish. We are going to Burkina Faso, and I a needed yellow fever vaccination. When I called, they were able to accommodate my schedule at either clinic, and when the day of the appointment I had a conflict, they worked around it. Everyone was really friendly upon arrival, and I was advised that a meningitis vaccination was a good idea. OK! I got everything I need, and the nurse was great. Fast too.”
“When you say Burkina Faso most people will just stare and say “where” are you going? Here, every thing was prepared: booklet, vaccinations, medications, alternate suggestions, strategies, everything I needed. Shots were given in a blink of an eye with no pain.”
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