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Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), located in Central Africa, was previously known as Zaire. In area it is the second largest country in Africa.

Travelers visiting the DRC will have a lot to explore including rain forests and wildlife. Over 12 percent of the country is made up of protected wildlife areas with gorillas, okapi, bonobos and other animals to see and learn about.

If you enjoy cruises, the DRC has a tour that takes you down the Congo River. It starts in the provincial capital of Kisangani to the national capital of Kinshasa. This 1750-kilometer cruise is ideal if you have a lot of free time on your hands.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a great destination for tourists. There’s so much to explore. Whether you travel by train or by air, the DRC awaits you.

On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Health Notices and Outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
What Is the Climate Like in the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
How Safe Is the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Virunga National Park
What Should I Take to the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
U.S. Embassy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Democratic Republic of the Congo. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Democratic Republic of the Congo: 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 –
    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 –
    Recommended for travel to most regions. Active transmission occurs in most parts of the country.

  • Hepatitis A –
    Food & Water –
    Recommended for most travelers.

  • Polio –
    Food & Water –
    The DRC has had documented polio cases in the last year. Vaccination or a single adult booster is recommended.

  • Yellow Fever –
    Mosquito –
    Required for all travelers over 9 months of age.

  • Chikungunya –
    Mosquito –
    DRC is a higher risk region. 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 Democratic Republic of the Congo
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.
Cholera Food & Water Recommended for travel to most regions. Active transmission occurs in most parts of the country.
Hepatitis A Food & Water Recommended for most travelers.
Polio Food & Water The DRC has had documented polio cases in the last year. Vaccination or a single adult booster is recommended.
Yellow Fever Mosquito Required for all travelers over 9 months of age.
Chikungunya Mosquito DRC is a higher risk region. 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 Democratic Republic of the Congo
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.

Sources: CDC, WHO and ISTM

  • Typhoid – Typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, typically spread through contaminated food or water, leading to fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The typhoid vaccine provides immunity against this bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of contracting the disease, especially in areas where typhoid is common.

  • Hepatitis A – The hepatitis A virus is highly contagious, primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact. To prevent infection, practice good hygiene and get vaccinated.

  • 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, a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, causes a range of symptoms, including jaundice and bleeding. Preventing it is crucial. The yellow fever vaccine is administered at least 10 days before travel to endemic areas, providing long-lasting immunity and playing a vital role in controlling the virus’s spread.

  • Chikungunya – Chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, causes fever and severe joint pain. Prevention includes using mosquito repellent and eliminating breeding sites. Vaccination provides the best protection.

  • Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.

  • Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.

  • Meningitis – Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, and can be life-threatening. The meningitis vaccine protects against various strains of meningitis-causing bacteria, stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies, thereby preventing infection and its serious complications.

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that can easily spread. Vaccination remains the primary defense against these threats. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, is a reliable way to bolster immunity and reduce the risk of infection and outbreaks.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Travelers are advised to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival in the country. Vaccination is also recommended by the CDC and WHO to protect travelers from the virus.

Malaria is present in all regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Travelers are advised to take antimalarials to protect themselves from infection. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are recommended for travelers to the region. Malaria parasites in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are resistant to chloroquine. Speak with your travel health specialist to identify which antimalarial is best for your trip and medical history.

Yellow fever is still a problem in the DRC. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country.

Zika is present in the DRC. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Steps should be taken to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to the virus.

Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease which is present in the DRC. Antimalarials are the best form of prevention alongside repellents and mosquito netting.

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.

To fend off bug bites, follow CDC advice: cover up with long clothing, use repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and avoid bug-heavy areas during dawn and dusk. Protect your sleep with insect-repellent-treated bed nets.

Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water, and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation.

At high altitudes, altitude sickness can strike, manifesting as headaches, dizziness, and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms develop, immediate descent to lower altitudes is essential, along with rest and medical evaluation if symptoms persist.

  • African Sleeping Sickness – Preventing African Sleeping Sickness involves wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent to avoid tsetse fly bites, which transmit the disease.

  • 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.

  • Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is a tick-borne disease that can be transmitted between humans through bodily fluids. Preventive strategies comprise tick avoidance, healthcare worker safety measures, and research efforts towards a vaccine to halt its transmission.

  • Dengue – According to the CDC, dengue fever, caused by a virus from mosquito bites, manifests through fever, headaches, and severe muscle pain. Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While no specific treatment exists, early medical intervention can mitigate severe complications.

  • Ebola – Ebola, a deadly virus, spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention involves hand hygiene and avoiding individuals that are infected.

  • Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever – The development of a Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever vaccine is underway, offering a potential defense against this deadly virus. MHF spreads through contact with infected animals or individuals, emphasizing the need for protective protocols.

  • Mpox – In Central and West Africa, mpox is a rare disease with animal-to-human transmission. Prevention strategies encompass vaccination against smallpox, maintaining distance from infected animals, and following meticulous hygiene to reduce human transmission.

  • Plague – Plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, can infect humans through flea bites and contact with infected animals. To prevent it, avoid rodent habitats and use insect repellent.

  • Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, a widespread parasitic disease transmitted through freshwater snails, requires awareness and precautionary actions. Prevention involves refraining from activities in contaminated water and wearing protective clothing. Early recognition of symptoms like fever and seeking medical attention are paramount for timely diagnosis and intervention, minimizing the severity of schistosomiasis-related complications and improving health outcomes.

  • Polio – The Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of many countries that has reported an instance of polio in the last 12 months. Travelers are advised to make sure their polio vaccination is up-to-date before travel to the region. Those who previously received a full set of polio immunization may need a single, lifetime booster shot.

A passport, visa, and World Health Organization (WHO) card with yellow fever vaccination are required to enter the DRC. It’s important to have your visa before traveling to the DRC.

Democratic Republic of Congo Entry Requirements
Do I Need A… For My Trip to Democratic Republic of Congo?
Passport table check mark
Tourist Visa table check mark
Business Visa table check mark
Vaccinations table check mark

Sources: Embassy of Democratic Republic of Congo and U.S. State Department

The U.S. Department of the State doesn’t know of any HIV/AID restrictions for people visiting the DRC or foreign residents in the DRC.

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The DRC has an equatorial and tropical climates making it hot and humid. The average temperature in the high 70’s in the low central basin and mid-60’s at altitudes of 5,000 feet. The best time to travel to the DRC is during dry season.

Here is what to expect from the climate in DRC:

  • Equatorial Climate – The temperature is stable throughout the year. There is a lot of rain during the months of April-May, and October-November. The least months with rainfall are January-February and June-July.

  • Tropical Climate – This occurs to the north and south of the equatorial zone. The climate becomes tropical and the rainfall averages between 40 to 67 inches per year. The temperature is lower in the winter dry season but higher during the summer rainy season. The spring is the end of the dry season.

  • The Mountains – In the east the DRC experiences the East African Rift that has created many lakes. The mountains affect precipitation, causing the west to have more rain while the east remains dry.

The coast experiences fog and low clouds because of the cool sea current. Travelers exploring the southern DRC will feel the dry season is more evident.

There are some parts of the DRC travelers should not visit. The eastern part of the DRC is not stable because of rebel and military groups. Violence has occurred including hurting civilians, killing, rape, and kidnapping. Pillaging is still happening in places like North Kivu, South Kivu, Tanganyika, Haut, Lomami, Ituri, Bas-Uele and Haut-Uele. Civil unrest is ongoing.

Travelers should stay away from demonstrations and large crowds. Protests can turn from peaceful to violent at any moment. People also need to be cautious of roadblocks and security forces. When you’re driving, you should keep doors and windows locked. Don’t let soldiers get into the car with you. It’s important not to get into a vehicle with anyone.

If you need to communicate with a legitimate officer, you should make sure your doors are locked. Only leave your window open a little bit to communicate with the officer.

You need to have your identity papers with you to show the police if the situation calls for them. It will make things easier if you follow the officer’s commands and if threatened, don’t resist.

If a crime occurs or you’re a victim of a crime, you should report it to the U.S. Embassy of Kinshasa.

Virunga National Park is a place in the DRC where many different kinds of animals live.

People can visit the park to go on walks through the forest to see mountain gorillas. They can also go on hikes, safaris, and cultural tours.

Some visitors might choose to hike up to the Nyiragongo volcano, where they can see a big lake of lava.

There may be safety concerns when visiting the park. Travelers should talk to travel experts and check safety information before going.

When you’re planning your trip to the DRC, there are some things you should consider taking with you.

  • Packing – Sunscreen, insect repellent, cotton clothing that is comfortable, good walking shoes, sunglasses, and a camera with plenty of film are some of the essentials you’ll need for your trip.

  • Currency/Money – U.S. money is accepted everywhere. There are also money changers available in many cities in the DRC. ATMS, that are internationally linked, are available in the larger cities, but they are not that reliable. When travelers tip, a 5% to 7% tip is expected. Most taxi drivers don’t expect tips but some ask for them. A good tip to have on you is CDF500, and it’s good to carry cash just in case of emergencies.

  • Medicines and Supplies – Prescription medicines, medical supplies, over the counter medicines, a first aid kit, and supplies to prevent injury and illness are important things to consider on your trip to the DRC.

It doesn’t hurt to be prepared on your trip so make sure you take everything you need to travel and stay healthy.

The U.S. Embassy’s mission is to advance the interests of the United States as well as to serve and protect U.S. citizens in the DRC.

U.S. Embassy Kinshasa
310 Avenue des Aviateurs
Kinshasa, Gombe
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Telephone: +(243) 081-556-0151 (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(243) 081-556-0151
Email: USEmbassyKinshasa@state.gov

Because of security issues in the DRC, the embassy may not be able to help in certain parts of the country or during certain times. It’s a good idea to check the embassy’s website or contact them to find out more about the services they offer and the safety of the area you are planning to visit.

Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!

Customer Reviews

Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Democratic Republic of the Congo

Overall rating: 5 stars – 8 reviews
★★★★★
“Great clinic“
“I had a last minute trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Clinic was booked, but they took my name in case of a cancellation. They got back to me within an hour, got me in, were incredibly thorough and professional. I VERY much appreciated all they did for me…”

Submitted by: Maureen
★★★★★
“Very good experience“
“Excellent consultation with a very smart and kind RN. My husband got 6 shots and still left very happy. Traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”

Submitted by: Sylvia
★★★★★
“Amazing Service and Care“
“I came to the clinic to get my vaccinations for a trip to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I was more than pleased with the level of service and care I received. I’m all set for my trip and they walked me through everything I needed to consider.”

Submitted by: Rob
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“I went back for a booster shot today and was promptly greeted by the friendly staff and got in a bit early. We talked about my trip to Turkey and Tiblisi as she readied the shot. She said there would be a slight sting…. But there was none as she gave me the shot in my right shoulder. I was amazed I did not feel the needle enter my arm and thought it must have been a very tiny needle, but when I looked at it, it was normal sized. I commented that I did not feel it and she said they use 25 gauge needles which are a better quality that most other medical facilities. She prepared my documentation and explained it thoroughly. She provided advice to me reference upcoming trips to Scotland and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Overall, the service could not have been better!”

Submitted by: Allen
★★★★★
“Great Job!“
“i Loved the easy online booking system, and the fact that I walked in, and did NOT have to wait in crowds all day to see someone. I arrived at my scheduled time, was called to the office 2 minutes later and everything was completely printed out and organized according my health background and travel plans to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Alt ought it was a lot of information to process, everything was clear and concise. The consultant really took time to answer all my questions. I left the office with all the vaccines and immunizations I needed plus a nice packet to reference of ALL possible conditions (outbreaks, symptoms etc) I may encounter in my travels.”

Submitted by: Michael
★★★★★
“Priority shot“
“Though the yellow fever vaccine is in short supply, an arrangement was made for me to receive the shot only two days after my request. Thanks for the early scheduling. It enables me to get a visa to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in a timely manner.”

Submitted by: Edmond
★★★★★
“Very Helpful“
“The travel nurse I had was very nice and helpful in preparing me for the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”

Submitted by: Rebecca
★★★★★
“Great experience“
“The RN was very knowledgeable and well informed. Everything was clear and managed confidently. I feel reassured going to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”

Submitted by: Elizabeth

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