Vaccinations For Kenya: What Vaccinations Do I Need?

Key Summary and Points

• Kenya, situated in East Africa, offers diverse attractions, including pristine beaches, urban life, and the annual animal migration between June and September, featuring zebras and gazelles in the Masai Mara National Reserve.
• Travellers planning a trip to Kenya should be aware of health risks, including malaria, dengue fever and altitude sickness. Vaccines for diseases like Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and B, Polio, Tetanus, Cholera, Rabies, and Typhoid are recommended based on individual travel plans.
• The vaccinations that the World Health Organisation recommends for travel to Kenya are adult diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus. Rabies and yellow fever are present as is malaria, and you should speak to our pharmacist for advice about both.  Call us at Kennedys Pharmacy Rasharkin, for a full travel health risk assessment to cover all your travel health needs.
• No vaccination certificate is needed for general travel to Kenya from the UK, but a Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Consultations with healthcare professionals, like those at Kennedy's Pharmacy, are recommended at least six to eight weeks before departure to address individual health needs and provide necessary vaccinations.

Destination Information for Kenya

Nestled in East Africa, Kenya boasts a diverse ethnic population and a rich tapestry of culture, making it an exceptional destination for both tourists and travellers alike. The country offers a wide array of attractions, ranging from pristine beaches and bustling urban life to breath-taking remote areas. Kenya's allure is heightened by its annual animal migration, a spectacle best witnessed between June and September.

The migration, featuring thousands of zebras and gazelles, is a major draw for tourists. Whether you opt for a hot air balloon ride or a drive through the plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve, observing these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Beyond the wildlife, Kenya invites exploration of Maasai Villages, providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people. The country also boasts captivating game reserves and museums, with Mombasa standing out for its historical significance as a thriving port town.

Planning A Trip To Kenya?

If you have a trip to Kenya planned, it's important to note that Kenya is a popular tourist destination known for its vast savannahs, snow-capped mountains, and excellent safari opportunities. However, travellers should be aware of potential health risks.

Kenya is considered a risk zone for various health issues such as malaria, dengue fever, schistosomiasis, and altitude sickness. Additionally, there are vaccines available for certain diseases associated with the region.

It is advisable to ensure you are adequately protected before embarking on your journey. Depending on your chosen destinations and planned activities, additional vaccines for Rabies, hepatitis B, Meningitis, and, in specific areas, Cholera may be recommended.

For those planning a trip from the UK to Kenya, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your GP or a travel clinic such as Kennedy's Pharmacy at least six to eight weeks before departure. During this appointment, you can discuss various travel health concerns and arrange for the necessary vaccinations.

It's always a good idea to prioritise your health and take preventive measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Vaccination Certificate Requirements

No vaccination certificate is needed to visit Kenya from the UK however, Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

You can learn more about Yellow Fever Here.

Vaccines To Consider When Visiting Kenya

A consultation will be completed with our pharmacist, Cara Murdock to discuss and assess your travel plans and background before making any recommendations. Current guidance advises travellers to Kenya to consider vaccinations against the following diseases:

• Diphtheria
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• Tetanus
• Cholera
• Rabies
• Typhoid

Recommendations are made based on each individual and the list above is not a sure list. Please book an appointment with our travel vaccination service for a bespoke consultation for your individual needs.

Consultation with Healthcare Professionals

Schedule a consultation with our healthcare professionals, at least six to eight weeks before departure. This allows for a thorough discussion of travel health concerns and the administration of necessary vaccinations, ensuring you are well-prepared for your trip to Thailand.

Kennedy Pharmacy provides a dedicated travel service in Rasharkin, Northern Ireland. Use the button below to book an appointment.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and Travel

Kenya has areas with high altitude (higher than 2400m) and areas with very high altitude (higher 3658m). The highest point in Kenya is Batian, the highest peak of Mount Kenya, which is 5199m above sea level.

If you are travelling to areas of high altitude, you should be aware of the risks and take care to avoid adverse effects of being at a high altitude.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a viral illness that is spread to humans by mosquitoes, which are more active during the day and common in urban areas such as towns and cities.

The symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, and joint, bone and muscle pain. There is currently no vaccine against dengue fever, so you will need to practise insect bite avoidance to protect yourself.

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis, commonly known as bilharzia, is an infection caused by a parasitic worm found in fresh water in subtropical and tropical regions.

It is advisable to refrain from swimming in fresh water bodies such as rivers, streams, and lakes whenever possible. Initially, individuals may not exhibit any symptoms, but after a few weeks, they may experience a rash, high temperature, cough, diarrhoea, and joint pain.

Fortunately, schistosomiasis can generally be effectively treated with a short course of medication designed to eliminate the parasitic worms.

African tick bite fever

Bacterial infection from bite from infected ticks. Most common between April-November and in rural, camping and hiking areas. Causes redness around site of bite and symptoms usually within 2 weeks, such as fever, muscle pain, headache and rash.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kenya beckons with a captivating blend of cultural richness and natural wonders. From the mesmerising annual animal migration to the vibrant Maasai Villages, the country offers a tapestry of experiences for every traveller. However, it's crucial to be well-prepared, considering the health risks associated with the region.

A visit to Kenya demands not only an adventurous spirit but also a proactive approach to health, including necessary vaccinations and precautions. By prioritising your well-being, you can ensure a safe and memorable journey through the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that Kenya has to offer.

References:

1. https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/africa/kenya
2. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kenya/health
3. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/kenya

Bonus: Best Things To Do in Kenya

Despite having a coastline of beautiful beaches perfect for lazing, Kenya rarely allows visitors to sit still – the country simply has too many exciting things to do.

Stirring landscapes ranging from equatorial glaciers and jagged peaks to wildlife-laden plains and tropical reefs provide an epic natural playground for all who venture here, while the intoxicating mix of cultures surprises at every turn.

1. See the Big Five on Safari
2. Climb Mount Kenya
3. Witness the great Migration
4. Dive or Snorkelling on Kenya's Coastline

FAQs

What is Diptheria?

Diphtheria is a bacterial disease that spreads primarily from coughs and sneezes. Common symptoms include a sore throat, fever, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, diphtheria can lead to life-threatening complications. The prevalence of this disease is notably higher in poor and densely populated areas.

Whats Is Polio?

Polio, a viral infection with the potential to cause paralysis. The transmission of polio occurs through coughs and sneezes, as well as fecal-oral contamination. Travellers to Kenya might be at risk in regions with inadequate sanitation, where contamination of food and water is possible.

What is Tetanus?