Travel Vaccines and Advice for Mauritania
Mauritania is one of the least-densely populated countries in the world, with many of its citizens residing in a single city. The majority of the population is concentrated in the south due to the desert region in the north.
Human Rights issues are present in Mauritania, mostly slavery, in which 4% of the population is enslaved. Mauritania has also received international scrutiny for its justice system.
Mauritania has a variety of languages including French, Pulaar, Soninke, and different forms of Arabic. Nearly everyone in the country practices Islam.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Mauritania?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Mauritania
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mauritania
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mauritania?
What Is the Climate Like in Mauritania?
How Safe Is Mauritania?
Bird Watching in Mauritania
What Should I Take to Mauritania?
U.S. Embassy in Mauritania
Do I Need Vaccines for Mauritania?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Mauritania. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Mauritania: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, 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. - 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 traveling south of the Sahara. - 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 –
Southern regions are 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 Mauritania |
||
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months of age traveling south of the Sahara. |
| 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 | Southern regions are located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) |
Routine Vaccinations for Mauritania |
||
| 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, caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads via contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Protect yourself by practicing good hygiene and safe food habits. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of typhoid infection, especially when traveling to endemic areas.
- 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.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever, a viral illness transmitted by infected mosquitoes, can be effectively prevented through vaccination. The yellow fever vaccine offers robust and long-lasting protection for individuals traveling to regions at risk.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- 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 viral infections that spread easily. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the CDC’s top recommendation for preventing these diseases. It offers comprehensive protection against all three viruses, ensuring the safety of both individuals and the community.
Yellow Fever in Mauritania
Yellow fever is present throughout areas south of the Sahara Desert in Mauritania. Travelers are advised to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival in the country. As yellow fever is common in Mauritania, proof of vaccination may be required when entering another country.
Malaria in Mauritania
Antimalarials are recommended for travelers to all regions of Mauritania except Dakhlet Nouadhibou and Tiris Zemmour. Chloroquine resistance is present in the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if traveling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
Medical care is limited in Mauritania. There are facilities in large urban areas, but pharmacies may not be well-stocked. It is advised that you bring your own prescriptions and medicines.
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 Mauritania
Prevent Bug Bites in Mauritania
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 Mauritania
Stay healthy overseas by favoring cooked and hot dishes, reputable eateries, and practicing good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages and use caution with tap water. Enjoy hot drinks and alcohol responsibly. To steer clear of travelers’ diarrhea, follow these strategies: eat safe foods, drink treated water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be discerning about local cuisine.
Infections To Be Aware of in Mauritania
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) spreads through tick bites. Protect yourself by wearing long clothing, applying insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks. Consult healthcare providers for options before traveling to affected areas.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, which spreads through ticks and human-to-human contact, can be mitigated by practicing tick bite prevention. Vaccinations against the disease are in development.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The CDC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by infected sand flies. It poses a significant health threat to humans and animals. Preventive measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors during peak sand fly activity.
- Rift Valley Fever – To prevent Rift Valley Fever, vaccination of livestock is crucial, along with controlling mosquito populations and ensuring safe animal handling practices. Public health education plays a vital role in raising awareness about RVF risks.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis is a waterborne disease caused by parasitic worms. Prevention includes avoiding activities in contaminated water and using protective measures like clothing. Recognizing symptoms early, such as fever and abdominal pain, and seeking medical assistance promptly can lead to timely diagnosis and intervention, reducing health risks.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mauritania
- Polio – Mauritania 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.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mauritania?
A visa, valid passport and proof of yellow fever vaccination are required to enter Mauritania.
Mauritania Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Mauritania? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Mauritania and U.S. State Department
It is best to obtain your visa before arrival to avoid any unforeseen difficulty when entering the country.
What Is the Climate Like in Mauritania?
Mauritania is a country in West Africa known for its hot and dry climate. Although it is mostly covered by the Sahara desert, there are some coastal areas that experience milder weather.
Nouakchott, the capital city, and Banc d’Arguin National Park are located on the Atlantic coast and have hot desert climates with high temperatures around 85 degrees throughout the year. They both experience a short rainy season from July to September.
Chinguetti, a small town located in the Adrar Region, has a hot desert climate with high temperatures averaging around 95 during the summer and 80 during the winter.
Atar, the capital of the Adrar Region, has a hot desert climate with high temperatures averaging around 100 degrees during the summer and 70 during the winter.
How Safe Is Mauritania?
at night. Try to stay in well-lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
Dress appropriately when you’re in public. Mauritania is mostly a Muslim country, so it’s important to cover your shoulders and legs, and men should not wear shorts. Avoid political demonstrations as these can sometimes be dangerous. If you’re planning on exploring the deserts or rural areas of Mauritania, it’s important to use a trusted guide who knows the area well. They can help you stay safe.
Be cautious of people who approach you on the street and try to sell you something or offer unsolicited help. Check the latest travel advisories from your government before you travel. These advisories will give you important information on safety and security concerns in the country.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mauritania.
Bird Watching in Mauritania
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Along the Atlantic coast, Parc National du Banc d’Arguin welcomes birds of all species that are migrating from Europe to Africa. Recognized as a World-Heritage site, this national park is the perfect place for bird-watching and is considered one of the best places to bird watch in Africa.
You can enter the park best by boat if you take one from a small village called Iwik. The park itself is made up of sand-dunes, swamps and coastal waters.
Millions of birds are recorded coming to this spot every year, including sandpipers, flamingos, pelicans, and egrets.
The best time of year to visit the park is in December and January, which is mating season.
What Should I Take to Mauritania?
Mauritania is a hot desert country, it’s important to pack light and breathable clothing like loose-fitting shirts and pants to stay comfortable. You should also bring items to protect yourself from the sun, like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Drinking lots of water is essential, so bring a reusable water bottle.
A basic first aid kit with bandages and medication is a good idea, and you may need a travel adapter to charge your electronics. Cash is recommended, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. To protect against insect-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever, bring insect repellent containing DEET.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Mauritania’s natural and historical sites, and a camera can capture memories of your trip. Remember to dress respectfully, as Mauritania is a Muslim country where conservative dress is expected.
U.S. Embassy in Mauritania
All Americans visiting Mauritania should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Mauritania, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Nouakchott
Nouadhibou Road, Avenue Al Quds,
NOT PRTZ.
Nouakchott, Mauritania
Telephone: +(222) 4525-2660
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(222) 3662-8163
Fax: (222) 4525-1592
Email: ConsularNKC@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to Mauritania 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 Mauritania
Overall rating: 5 stars – 2 reviews
★★★★★
“Thorough Immunization Review“
“I arrived 1 hour early and was seen immediately. Reviewed my immunization record and gave gave only immunization that was required. Reviewed the Country Mauritania and recommended a wellness kit which was prescribed for pickup at my pharmacy and received travel tip booklet on various diseases. Overall a very pleasant and friendly experience.”
Submitted by: Clive
★★★★★
“Confidence“
“The nurse gave us so much information about our trip to Mauritania that we are feeling a lot more confident about what we need to do to stay healthy.”
Submitted by: Linda
“I arrived 1 hour early and was seen immediately. Reviewed my immunization record and gave gave only immunization that was required. Reviewed the Country Mauritania and recommended a wellness kit which was prescribed for pickup at my pharmacy and received travel tip booklet on various diseases. Overall a very pleasant and friendly experience.”
“The nurse gave us so much information about our trip to Mauritania that we are feeling a lot more confident about what we need to do to stay healthy.”
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