Travel Vaccines and Advice for Comoros
The Comoros are a beautiful island chain located off the coast of East Africa. While they do not have a strong tourism industry, they boast pristine beaches, breathtaking mountain ranges, and aquatic attractions such as deep sea fishing and snorkeling.
The most popular destination in the Comoros is the largest island, of Grand Comore. With a landscape that is equal parts agricultural and waterfront, it is a prime location for visitors seeking unforgettable views.
The Comoros’ other major sites include the islands of Moheli and Anjouan, and the cities of Fomboni and Mutsamudu. Although not as well known as other island chains, Comoros offers plenty to see and do for any adventurous traveler.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Comoros?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Comoros
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Comoros?
What Is the Climate Like in Comoros?
How Safe Is Comoros?
Mount Karthala in the Comoros
What Should I Take to Comoros?
U.S. Embassy in Comoros
Do I Need Vaccines for Comoros?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Comoros. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Comoros: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, 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. - 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. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. - 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. - 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:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Comoros |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. |
| 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. |
Routine Vaccinations for Comoros |
||
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is primarily transmitted through tainted food and water. Protection against this disease involves vaccination combined with good hygiene and careful food consumption.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- 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 viral disease that affects mammals and spreads through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Preventing rabies involves vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals, and seeking immediate medical attention if exposed. The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventive measure that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
Malaria in Comoros
Malaria is widespread in Comoros. Antimalarials are recommended for all travelers to the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often given to travelers to Comoros. 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.
The medical care in the Comoros is rudimentary, and many of the facilities are in poor condition. Consider bringing medical supplies when traveling, as they are harder to come by on the islands.
For more details on any of the above vaccinations, visit the detailed Passport Health specialty vaccinations page or make an appointment with your local Travel Medicine Specialist. To book your appointment either call or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Comoros
Prevent Bug Bites in Comoros
Keep bugs at bay by dressing smartly and applying EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or OLE. In case of a bug bite, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and find relief with readily available remedies. If symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Food and Water Safety in Comoros
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options.
Infections To Be Aware of in Comoros
- Dengue – The threat of dengue fever, carried by Aedes mosquitoes, looms large worldwide, with millions infected each year. Prevention through nettings and repellents is a must.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Comoros?
Entry and exit requirements for the Comoros are fairly loose. Travelers will need to have an application for entry with completed information, a valid passport that will remain valid at least six months after the date of arrival in the Comoros, a passport-sized photo, and proof of a return ticket.
Comoros Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Comoros? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Comoros and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Comoros?
Comoros is a group of islands off the east coast of Africa with warm and humid weather all year. The country has a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.
Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan experience similar weather conditions. The wet season has heavy rainfall and high humidity. The dry season has less rainfall and lower humidity. The temperature on the islands ranges from 70 to 85 degrees throughout the year.
Visitors should be prepared for high humidity and the possibility of heavy rainfall, especially during the wet season. It’s essential to check the current weather conditions before traveling to Comoros. The climate can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be informed before going.
How Safe Is Comoros?
Criminal activity against travelers is relatively low in the Comoros. The most common incidents are pick-pocketing and other instances of petty theft. The best way to prevent this is to be vigilant in public spaces and always protect one’s belongings.
Because of the country’s current state of political unrest travelers should avoid large gatherings and areas of demonstration.
Piracy is an issue in the Comoros. Small vessels traveling between the islands are vulnerable to hostile attention.
Mount Karthala in the Comoros
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Mount Karthala is a big volcano on an island in Comoros, Africa. It is a famous place for tourists to visit because it has beautiful views and interesting things to see. People can go hiking to the top of the volcano, which takes a couple of days and is challenging but worth it.
Visitors can also see lava flows, craters, and hot springs on the mountain.
Mount Karthala has many different plants and animals, some of which can only be found on the mountain. People who like adventure can go mountain biking, camping, or take off-road vehicle tours. It is important to check with local authorities before visiting the volcano because it is active and can be dangerous.
What Should I Take to Comoros?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to the Comoros:
- Paper Currency – Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Comoros. Make sure to bring euros and U.S. dollars, as many locations will take these.
- Breathable Clothing– The climate of the Comoros is often hot and humid. Wear clothing that is not too thick, and that you would mind getting wet.
- Satellite Phone – These are the easiest way to communicate to parties outside of the Comoros. There is also Internet available in some locations.
- Proof of Return Ticket – travelers will not be allowed to enter the country without proof of a return ticket. Make sure you have this on hand upon entrance.
- Basic Health Supplies-Supplies like bandages and aspirin can be hard to come by in the Comoros, so be sure to pack them.
U.S. Embassy in Comoros
The nearest U.S. Embassy to Comoros is located in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
All Americans visiting Comoros should register online with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
If you plan to buy a local SIM card you can also enter your phone number to receive SMS updates from the office.
U.S. Embassy Antananarivo
Lot 207 A, Point Liberty
Andranoro – Antehiroka
105 Antananarivo
Madagascar
Tel: (+261) 20 23 480 00
consantan@state.gov
Visit the Embassy to Comoros website before your trip to confirm correct contact information.
If you have any questions about traveling to the Comoros or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Comoros
“As someone who is petrified of needles, I was pretty scared having to go in for multiple shots for a trip to Comoros, However, the nurse was amazing. She was thorough in explaining what I needed and didn’t need, and had a bound itinerary waiting for me. She was patient, answered all my questions and did not rush me. Best of all, I had to get three shots and barely reacted. She was so quick and so sympathetic to my needle-phobia. She was truly fabulous. I would highly, highly recommend this place- it is worth the money.”
“Very Competent and clear, they help me to find the right vaccine for my incoming trip to Comoros. I’ll definitely suggested to someone else”
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