Travel Vaccines and Advice for Mozambique
Mozambique is one of the fastest growing African vacation destinations. It is home to beautiful stretches of white sand beaches and pristine turquoise water. The waters are home to diverse marine animals and coral reefs.
The tropical climate makes it an ideal winter getaway. Besides marine activities, there are safari’s and historical monuments to explore. Mozambique offers travellers seeking an adventure plenty of opportunity to find one.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Mozambique?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Mozambique
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mozambique
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mozambique?
What Is the Climate Like in Mozambique?
How Safe Is Mozambique?
Bazaruto Archipelago
What Should I Pack for Mozambique?
Canadian Embassy in Mozambique
Do I Need Vaccines for Mozambique?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Mozambique. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Mozambique: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, 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 –
Areas of active transmission include Cabo Delgado and Nampula. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - 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. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - 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 Mozambique |
||
| 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 | Areas of active transmission include Cabo Delgado and Nampula. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Mozambique |
||
| 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. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| 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 fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Cholera – Cholera, driven by Vibrio cholerae, is a dangerous waterborne disease. Contaminated water and food are primary sources of transmission. Preventive measures, including vaccination, focus on improving water quality, sanitation, and hygiene to combat this deadly illness.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
- Polio – Polio is a highly infectious viral disease which leads to paralysis and sometimes death. The polio vaccine effectively prevents polio, and is key to global eradication efforts.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travellers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travellers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are preventable diseases that require a proactive approach through vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is a powerful tool in stopping the transmission of these viruses. Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks.
Polio immunization is not recommended for Mozambique. But, a polio booster for adults may be recommended for surrounding countries
Traveller’s diarrhea can easily ruin a trip. Be sure to bring a traveller’s diarrhea kit with you to avoid this embarrassing symptom.
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 Mozambique
Prevent Bug Bites in Mozambique
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Mozambique
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Altitude Sickness in Mozambique
Altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headaches and fatigue, occurs at high elevations due to oxygen deficiency. To prevent it, ascend gradually, hydrate sufficiently, and consider medication. If symptoms emerge, promptly descend to lower altitudes for recovery.
Infections To Be Aware of in Mozambique
- 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 travelling to affected areas.
- Dengue – Dengue fever, caused by Aedes mosquito bites, poses a significant global health risk. Preventative measures, including avoiding mosquito bites, are crucial due to the lack of direct antiviral treatments.
- Rift Valley Fever – Rift Valley Fever spreads through mosquito bites and contact with infected animal tissues. Vaccination of livestock, mosquito control, and public health education are key measures to prevent RVF transmission to humans.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection transmitted through contaminated water. Avoiding contact with infected water sources and using protective clothing can reduce the risk of infection. Seeking medical evaluation promptly if symptoms such as fever and fatigue manifest enables timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications and promoting recovery.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mozambique
- Polio – At least one case of polio was reported in Mozambique over the last 12 months. The PHAC and WHO advise all travellers to ensure their polio vaccination history is up-to-date. Adults who previously received a full set of polio vaccinations may need a single, lifetime booster dose.
- Cholera – A cholera outbreak that started in 2022 has continued to grow in Mozambique. Over 5,000 cases of cholera have been reported so far. Travellers to the region should receive the cholera vaccine and take food safety precautions while in the country.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mozambique?
A visa is required for entry to Mozambique. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required based on your country of origin.
Mozambique Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Mozambique? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Mozambique and Canadian Travel and Tourism
There are currency restrictions for travellers upon entry and exit.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Mozambique?
Mozambique is a warm and humid country with a tropical climate. Its most popular tourist destinations are usually warm to hot throughout the year, with both wet and dry seasons. Maputo, the capital city, is in the south and is hot and humid throughout the year, with heavy rainfall between October and April. Tofo Beach, another popular destination in the south, is also hot and humid year-round. The wet season runs from November to April and the dry season from May to October.
The Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of islands off the southern coast, has warm and sunny weather throughout the year. The wet season runs from December to March, and the dry season runs from April to November. Pemba, in the northern part of the country, also experiences hot and humid weather year-round, with the wet season running from December to March and the dry season running from April to November.
Mozambique’s most popular tourist destinations are warm to hot throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
How Safe Is Mozambique?
Mozambique can be an unsafe place for travellers, so it’s important to take steps to stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Stay informed : Learn about the safety situation in Mozambique before you go and while you’re there.
- Choose safe accommodations : Stay in secure hotels or accommodations with security measures like guards and cameras.
- Be cautious when travelling : Be aware of your surroundings, don’t travel alone at night, and use trusted transportation.
- Carry identification : Carry a form of identification with you at all times, like your passport or ID card.
- Keep valuables safe : Keep your valuables, like your money and passport, in a safe place.
- Respect local customs : Dress appropriately and don’t show off expensive things like jewelry or electronics.
- Follow local laws : Obey the laws of Mozambique, especially regarding drugs and weapons.
- Seek help if you need it : In an emergency, contact the local authorities or your embassy. Keep their information handy.
Remember, the safety situation in Mozambique can change quickly, so stay informed and be ready to adjust your plans.
Bazaruto Archipelago
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of six islands off the coast of Mozambique. These islands are known for their stretches of white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters. Beneath the water lies beautiful coral reefs that rare marine animals call home.
A diverse array of animals found only in Bazaruto, like the rare dugong.
Visitors to the Bazaruto Archipelago can partake in a variety of outdoor activities such as scuba diving, fishing, and sailing. To limit environmental damage, visitors must stay in one of the several private lodges on the island. The Bazaruto Archipelago is the perfect Indian Ocean adventure.
What Should I Pack for Mozambique?
Mozambique is a beautiful destination. But, it does require some extra preparation. See what you should make sure is in your luggage:
- Mosquitoes are a problem in Mozambique and repellent should always be worn, especially after sunset.
- Extra memory cards and batteries for your camera as these can be difficult to find while travelling.
- Avoid wearing blue or black clothing. The tsetse flies are attracted to these colors.
- Consider bringing a headlamp. Power outages are not uncommon in Mozambique.
- Lightweight clothing that is suitable for hot weather.
- Water can be expensive and drinking the tap water is not encouraged. Consider bringing a water filter or iodine tablets.
Canadian Embassy to Mozambique
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in Mozambique, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of Maputo.
Canadian Embassy Maputo
Avenida Kenneth Kaunda 1138
Maputo, Mozambique
Telephone: 258 (21) 244-200
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Mozambique
“A clean, quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The nurse who greeted us was welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and good with our children – making efforts to help them feel as comfortable as possible. We will recommend Passport Health to family and friends! We’re ready for Mozambique.”
“The nurse was extremely knowledgeable about both the destination and the health issues we could encounter in Mozambique. She was also genuinely nice and helpful, both my girlfriend and I had a great experience with her”
“I had the pleasure of going to the clinic this morning in preparation for my trip to Mozambique. Everything was explained perfectly and the injection did not hurt in the least. My nurse was so friendly and made my experience great.”
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