Travel health

Travel vaccinations for South Africa

Heading to South Africa? Here's the travel health protection we recommend before you go — based on current UK guidance and tailored to your exact trip at your appointment.

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Personalised to you

How we work out your plan

No two travellers are the same. Whether you need certain vaccines comes down to these factors — and we confirm it all at a quick risk assessment.

Where you're going
City and resort areas carry different risks to rural and remote regions.
How long you're staying
A short holiday is very different to a long stay or backpacking trip.
What you'll be doing
Trekking, animal contact, healthcare or aid work all change what you need.
Time of year
Some risks are seasonal — like Japanese Encephalitis or meningitis.
Your age & who's travelling
Children, older travellers and pregnancy can need a different plan.
Your health
Existing conditions or a weakened immune system are taken into account.
What you need

Recommended vaccinations for South Africa

Based on current UK guidance for South Africa. Your final plan is always tailored to you at your appointment.

Recommended for all travellers to South Africa

Whatever your trip, these are advised for everyone heading to South Africa.

Recommended for some — depending on your trip, age & health

Whether you need any of these comes down to the factors above — we'll advise exactly at your appointment.

Malaria

Malaria risk in South Africa is low and limited to specific areas; the main tourist destinations are generally very low risk. We'll confirm whether tablets are needed for your trip.

Yellow Fever

A Yellow Fever certificate is not required for most travellers to South Africa — it is only needed if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

FAQs

South Africa travel health FAQs

What vaccinations do I need for South Africa?
For most travellers we recommend Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Diphtheria & Polio, Typhoid. Depending on your plans, Hepatitis B, Rabies may also be advised. We tailor this to your exact trip at your appointment.
Is there malaria in South Africa?
Malaria risk in South Africa is low and limited to specific areas; the main tourist destinations are generally very low risk. We'll confirm whether tablets are needed for your trip.
Do I need a Yellow Fever certificate for South Africa?
A Yellow Fever certificate is not required for most travellers to South Africa — it is only needed if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission.
How far in advance should I get my jabs for South Africa?
Ideally 4–6 weeks before you travel so any courses have time to work — but we offer same-day appointments if your trip is sooner.
Where can I get South Africa travel vaccines in Glasgow?
At our Happy Jabs city-centre clinic, with same-day and last-minute appointments. Book online or call us.

Travelling soon? Don't leave it to the last minute.

Book your travel vaccination appointment today and travel with peace of mind.

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