Travel Vaccines and Advice for Uganda
The east African country of Uganda was called the “Pearl of Africa” by Winston Churchill. That title is unsurprising if one looks at the sheer beauty of the country.
In Uganda is the world’s longest river, the Nile, snowy mountains, and wildlife reserves. The country has a diverse culture, comprised of more than 50 local tribes, each with their own traditions and history. There’s also a lively night life, particularly in Kampala, with tons of parties, bars, and dance floors around.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Uganda?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Uganda
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Uganda?
What Is the Climate Like in Uganda?
Is It Safe to Travel to Uganda?
Queen Elizabeth National Park
What Should I Take to Uganda?
U.S. Embassy in Uganda
Do I Need Vaccines for Uganda?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Uganda. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Uganda: typhoid, 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. - 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 for all travelers over 1 year of age. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Infection is believed to be widespread in Uganda. 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 Uganda |
||
| 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 for all travelers over 1 year of age. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Infection is believed to be widespread in Uganda. 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 Uganda |
||
| 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 potentially life-threatening illness caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water in areas with poor sanitation. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and safe food and water precautions.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. The hepatitis A vaccine is an effective prevention method, administered in two shots over six months. The vaccine is recommended for travelers to areas with high hepatitis A rates and certain high-risk groups.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever, a virus transmitted by mosquitoes, can cause serious illness. Protection is essential, and the yellow fever vaccine is the key. This highly effective vaccine, administered before travel to at-risk areas, grants long-lasting immunity, helping to halt the virus’s spread and safeguard travelers from infection.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this 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.
- Meningitis – Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. The meningitis vaccine, administered through injection, protects against various types of meningitis, including bacterial forms. It’s recommended for high-risk groups, including certain age groups, travelers, and those with specific medical conditions.
- 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.
Yellow Fever in Uganda
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Uganda. 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 in Uganda
Antimalarials are recommended for travelers to all regions of Uganda. 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.
Malaria spreads through infected mosquitoes. Travelers should also take steps to avoid mosquito bites and take antimalarials.
There is a risk of yellow fever in Uganda. All travelers over the age of one year must be vaccinated for entry.
The CDC recommends travelers planning on visiting certain parts of Uganda during the dry season (December – June) receive a meningitis vaccine.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Uganda
Prevent Bug Bites in Uganda
Protect yourself from bug bites by wearing long clothing and using CDC-recommended repellents like DEET or picaridin. Avoid bug-prone areas during peak hours to reduce the risk.
Food and Water Safety in Uganda
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.
Altitude Sickness in Uganda
Altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headache and nausea stemming from oxygen deprivation at high elevations, can be prevented through gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. Should AMS symptoms arise, immediate descent to lower altitudes, rest and seek medical attention.
Infections To Be Aware of in Uganda
- African Sleeping Sickness – Protective clothing and insect repellent use, plays a vital role in preventing African Sleeping Sickness, a disease transmitted by tsetse flies in sub-Saharan Africa.
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is transmitted through tick bites. Prevention involves proper clothing, tick repellents, and regular tick inspections. If visiting endemic regions, consult healthcare professionals to further safeguard against ATBF.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
- 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.
- Ebola – Ebola, a deadly virus, can be prevented through rigorous hand hygiene and avoiding infected individuals, both are crucial in halting its transmission.
- Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever – As the development of a Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever vaccine progresses, it remains vital to prevent the virus’s spread through vigilant measures. Infections stem from contact with infected animals or people, stressing the importance of protective gear.
- Rift Valley Fever – Rift Valley Fever, transmitted by mosquitoes and infected animal contact, can be prevented through livestock vaccination, mosquito control, and safe animal handling practices.
- 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, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can lead to birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Uganda?
American travelers to Uganda must have a valid passport and visa for entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is also required.
Uganda Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Uganda? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Uganda and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Uganda?
Uganda is a country with many popular tourist destinations, each with its own unique weather patterns.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is in the southwest and is known for mountain gorillas. The weather there is generally cool and wet throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 45 to 70 degrees. It is wettest from March to May and September to November, and driest from June to August and December to February.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is in the west and has a lot of wildlife like elephants, lions and hippos. The weather is generally warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 85. It is wettest from March to May and September to November, and driest from June to August and December to February.
Murchison Falls National Park is in the north and has a waterfall and wildlife like elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles. The weather is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 80 to 90. It is wettest from March to May and September to November, and driest from June to August and December to February.
Kibale National Park is in the west and is known for chimpanzees and tropical forests. The weather is generally warm and wet, with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80. It is wettest from March to May and September to November, and driest from June to August and December to February.
Uganda has a tropical climate, and it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before visiting any of these destinations.
Is It Safe to Travel to Uganda?
Before traveling, it is a good idea to research the places you plan to visit to get an idea of the safety situation in those areas. Use reliable tour operators and transportation providers. Be cautious of strangers who approach you.
Keep your valuables such as cash, passport, and electronics in a safe place like a hotel safe or a money belt. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry and electronics. Always wear a seatbelt and drive carefully.
These tips can help you stay safe while traveling in Uganda.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
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Queen Elizabeth National Park is a popular tourist destination in Uganda because of its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Tourists can see many different kinds of animals on a safari, like elephants, lions and chimpanzees.
They can also take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, crocodiles, and many types of birds. Birdwatchers will be especially happy in the park, as there are over 600 species of birds. There are cultural tours where tourists can visit local communities and learn about the different tribes that live there.
Tourists can go on hikes and explore the different trails in the park, such as the Kyambura Gorge and Maramagambo Forest.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers many fun activities for tourists interested in nature, wildlife, and culture, and is a must-visit destination in Uganda.
What Should I Take to Uganda?
If you’re planning a trip to Uganda, you should pack light, comfortable clothes because it’s warm and humid there. Don’t forget to bring a rain jacket or umbrella for occasional rain showers. You should also bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Sunscreen with a high SPF and sunglasses will protect your skin and eyes from the intense equatorial sun.
It’s also a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit with basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers. A camera and binoculars will allow you to capture the beauty of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes. Bring enough cash or a credit card to cover expenses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
You’ll need your passport and any necessary visas, as well as proof of yellow fever vaccination. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. Uganda uses Type G electrical outlets, bring a travel adapter if you plan to bring electronic devices.
U.S. Embassy in Uganda
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 Kampala
Plot 1577 Ggaba Road
Kampala, Uganda
Telephone: +(256)(0) 414-306-001 and +(256)(0)312-306-001
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(256)(0) 414-306-001 and +(256)(0)312-306-001
Fax: +(256)(0) 414-259-794
Email: KampalaUScitizen@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to Uganda or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment by calling or book online today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the Uganda
Overall rating: 5 stars – 13 reviews
★★★★★
“Hep A… Gets A+“
“Great experience… again! Informative, helpful and extremely pleasant nurse (so sorry I don’t recall his name) gave great feedback to upcoming return trip to Uganda! But, was most informative about Hep A shot so was truly an A+ (not positive for Hep A) experience! (A little medical humor)… Have a great one and thanks for the fantastic service! Oh! And the shot was not even a pinch! Thanks for that, too!”
Submitted by: Ericka
★★★★★
“Passport health clinic“
“We had an extremely positive experience. The person was knowledgeable, helpful, and patient with our questions. We also appreciated that we were given a booklet made specifically for us and our trip to Uganda.”
Submitted by: Lynne
★★★★★
“Very helpful“
“The nurse was very informed and helpful in explaining my needs, medical and otherwise, for my upcoming trip to Uganda.”
Submitted by: Kim
★★★★★
“Expertise is worth the price“
“I feel very confident that I am well prepared for my journey to Uganda. Information offered was extensive and useful. Never felt pressured to buy anything extra.”
Submitted by: Caroline
★★★★★
“Great experience from start to finish“
“We are going to Uganda on a veterinary mission to help the dogs on the Jane Goodall Islands and will also be doing some Gorilla trekking, therefore we needed 20 vaccines (as per the Gorilla sanctuary and the country of Uganda). Passport health explained to us each vaccine, why it might be necessary, which are optional and which were up to us based on personal risk factor of what we would be doing. They were not pushy and their pricing was fair. They also showed us an informative video, as well as sold some necessary items that we would need for our trip. We were given a bound booklet specific to us and our travel and what information we needed, which was great to have and the receptionist and the nurse could not have been nicer. The vaccines did not hurt at all and we had no side effects. Overall we were very impressed and found it to be a great experience.”
Submitted by: Suzanne
★★★★★
“Trip to Uganda“
“Our nurse/advisor on the recommended shots for traveling to Uganda. She was very personable and helpful and made it a very nice experience . Would use them again for sure”
Submitted by: Becky
★★★★★
“Very helpful“
“I had a 6 week notice on a trip to Uganda, so I was nervous that I didn’t have enough time to prepare with vaccinations, etc. The staff was very helpful, she looked at my timeline and budget helped me come up with a plan t get everything ready.”
Submitted by: Elise
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“Today my husband and I met with the nurse at Passport Health in Pleasant Hill, Ca. She was very helpful, knowledgeable, through, and patient. She clearly answered all our questions and gave us lots of information that we need to know for our upcoming trip to rural Uganda. We also appreciated the detailed guide about travel to Uganda that was prepared in advance for us.”
Submitted by: Mary
★★★★★
“Great experience“
“Great experience with my travel vaccines for mission trip to Uganda. Great staff”
Submitted by: Robert
★★★★★
“Great Experience!“
“From the second I walked in the door the nurse was very friendly and knowledgeable. She was able to answer all of my questions and provided valuable information that I had not even considered for things that I need to bring on my trip. The entire experience was pleasant and I left feeling prepared for my trip to Uganda. I will definitely use Passport Health in the future when traveling internationally!”
Submitted by: Niki
★★★★★
“Very Friendly & knowledgeable Clinic“
“The nurse was very friendly, knowledgeable and loved that she was ready with information regarding my trip to Uganda. I felt very comfortable with her.”
Submitted by: Adelia
★★★★★
“Machu Picchu“
“The young lady working there was more than helpful in helping prepare for my upcoming travels to Uganda. I will most definitely return when preparing for dream trip!”
Submitted by: Jermaine
★★★★★
“Great experience“
“answered questions I had and made me feel confident about our upcoming trip to Uganda. I will definitely recommend friends to passport health.”
Submitted by: Kay
“Great experience… again! Informative, helpful and extremely pleasant nurse (so sorry I don’t recall his name) gave great feedback to upcoming return trip to Uganda! But, was most informative about Hep A shot so was truly an A+ (not positive for Hep A) experience! (A little medical humor)… Have a great one and thanks for the fantastic service! Oh! And the shot was not even a pinch! Thanks for that, too!”
“We had an extremely positive experience. The person was knowledgeable, helpful, and patient with our questions. We also appreciated that we were given a booklet made specifically for us and our trip to Uganda.”
“The nurse was very informed and helpful in explaining my needs, medical and otherwise, for my upcoming trip to Uganda.”
“I feel very confident that I am well prepared for my journey to Uganda. Information offered was extensive and useful. Never felt pressured to buy anything extra.”
“We are going to Uganda on a veterinary mission to help the dogs on the Jane Goodall Islands and will also be doing some Gorilla trekking, therefore we needed 20 vaccines (as per the Gorilla sanctuary and the country of Uganda). Passport health explained to us each vaccine, why it might be necessary, which are optional and which were up to us based on personal risk factor of what we would be doing. They were not pushy and their pricing was fair. They also showed us an informative video, as well as sold some necessary items that we would need for our trip. We were given a bound booklet specific to us and our travel and what information we needed, which was great to have and the receptionist and the nurse could not have been nicer. The vaccines did not hurt at all and we had no side effects. Overall we were very impressed and found it to be a great experience.”
“Our nurse/advisor on the recommended shots for traveling to Uganda. She was very personable and helpful and made it a very nice experience . Would use them again for sure”
“I had a 6 week notice on a trip to Uganda, so I was nervous that I didn’t have enough time to prepare with vaccinations, etc. The staff was very helpful, she looked at my timeline and budget helped me come up with a plan t get everything ready.”
“Today my husband and I met with the nurse at Passport Health in Pleasant Hill, Ca. She was very helpful, knowledgeable, through, and patient. She clearly answered all our questions and gave us lots of information that we need to know for our upcoming trip to rural Uganda. We also appreciated the detailed guide about travel to Uganda that was prepared in advance for us.”
“Great experience with my travel vaccines for mission trip to Uganda. Great staff”
“From the second I walked in the door the nurse was very friendly and knowledgeable. She was able to answer all of my questions and provided valuable information that I had not even considered for things that I need to bring on my trip. The entire experience was pleasant and I left feeling prepared for my trip to Uganda. I will definitely use Passport Health in the future when traveling internationally!”
“The nurse was very friendly, knowledgeable and loved that she was ready with information regarding my trip to Uganda. I felt very comfortable with her.”
“The young lady working there was more than helpful in helping prepare for my upcoming travels to Uganda. I will most definitely return when preparing for dream trip!”
“answered questions I had and made me feel confident about our upcoming trip to Uganda. I will definitely recommend friends to passport health.”
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