Health Information

Kenya Health & Vaccinations

Everything you need to know about staying healthy during your trip to Kenya. Vaccinations, malaria prevention, healthcare, and essential health tips.

Malaria Risk

Yes - Take Precautions

Tap Water

Not Safe

Healthcare Quality

Good private healthcare in Nairobi and Mombasa

Required Vaccines

1

Vaccinations

Required Vaccinations

  • Yellow Fever

    Required if arriving from endemic country

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus
  • Polio (booster)

Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Malaria Prevention

Malaria is present in Kenya. Take preventive measures seriously.

High-Risk Areas

  • Coast
  • Western Kenya
  • Lake Victoria region
  • Safari areas below 2000m

Low-Risk Areas

  • Nairobi
  • Central Highlands above 2500m

Common Antimalarial Medications

MalaroneDoxycyclineLariam

Consult your doctor to choose the right medication for you. Start taking it before arrival as directed.

Prevention Tips

  • Use DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30% DEET)
  • Sleep under mosquito nets (treated nets are best)
  • Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk
  • Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened rooms
  • Take antimalarial medication as prescribed

Water & Food Safety

Tap Water

Tap water is NOT safe to drink in Kenya. Always drink bottled or purified water.

  • Drink only bottled water (check seal is intact)
  • Avoid ice in drinks unless from a trusted source
  • Use bottled water for brushing teeth
  • Consider a water purification bottle or tablets

Food Safety Tips

  • Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover
  • Avoid raw vegetables and salads unless you trust the source
  • Eat fruits you can peel yourself
  • Ensure meat and seafood are thoroughly cooked
  • Carry hand sanitizer and use before eating

Healthcare in Kenya

Good private healthcare in Nairobi and Mombasa, limited elsewhere. Travel insurance essential.

Healthcare Quality

Private hospitals in major cities offer good care and are recommended for tourists. Public hospitals may have long waits and limited resources.

Recommendation: Get comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Recommended Hospitals in Nairobi

  • Nairobi Hospital

    Private Hospital

    +254 20 2845000

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Kenya. Healthcare costs can be expensive, and medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.

Medical Coverage

Minimum $100,000 recommended

Medical Evacuation

Essential for remote safari areas

Trip Cancellation

Protects your investment

Health Essentials to Pack

DEET insect repellent (30%+)
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Antimalarial tablets
Oral rehydration salts
Anti-diarrhea medication
Pain relievers
Hand sanitizer
Water purification tablets
Mosquito net (if camping)
Medical documentation

Emergency Contacts

Emergency/Ambulance

999

Police

999

Fire

999

Tourist Police

+254 20 2714222

Related Guides

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