Travel Information Centre
Health
Immunization
Health Care
Malaria
Immunization
1: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age
arriving from infected areas. African countries formerly classified as endemic zones are
considered by the South African authorities to be infected areas. The yellow fever
vaccination certificate only becomes valid 10 days after immunisation.
2: Malaria risk, predominantly in the malignant falciparum form, exists throughout the
year in the low altitude areas of the Northern Province (Limpopo), Mpumalanga (including
the Kruger National Park) and north-eastern KwaZulu/Natal as far south as the Tugela
River. The risk is highest from October to May. Resistance to chloroquine has been
reported. It is strongly recommended that visitors to these areas take anti-malaria
tablets before entering these areas (tablets are available from pharmacies without
prescription). The recommended prophylaxis is chloroquine plus proguanil or chloroquine
plus pyrimethamine.
It is advisable to contact your medical advisor.
3: Tap water is safe to drink in urban areas, but may be contaminated elsewhere and
sterilisation is advisable. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for
consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered
safe to eat.
4. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be
considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay.
5. Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is endemic in the north and east of South Africa and may be
present elsewhere. Avoid swimming and paddling in stationary water. Swimming pools which
are well-chlorinated and maintained are safe.
6. Hepatitis A occurs and hepatitis B is hyper endemic.
Health Care
Medical facilities are excellent. Health insurance is recommended.
Doctors are listed under "Medical " in the telephone directory and hospitals
under "H". All major hotels have contracts with physicians and dentists.
Malaria
High Risk Areas
Eastern areas bordering Mozambique (mainly Kruger Park) stretching to Messina on
Zimbabwean border.
Northern portion of KwaZulu Natal bordering Mozambique (mainly Ndumo and Tembe Elephant
Park)
Intermediate Risk Area
Eastern area of Swaziland bordering Mozambique.
Eastern areas of north Zululand form St Lucia Lake northwards including Hluhluwe and
Mkuze.
Low Risk Area
KwaZulu Natal northern area from Tugela northwards to Swaziland excluding higher lying
areas.
Area bordering Kruger Park into northern portion of Limpopo province bordering Zimbabwe
Please consult your medical practioner or chemist for anti-malarial drugs; specially when
travelling between October and May.
General