Uganda Health & Vaccinations
Everything you need to know about staying healthy during your trip to Uganda. Vaccinations, malaria prevention, healthcare, and essential health tips.
Malaria Risk
Yes - Take Precautions
Tap Water
Not Safe
Healthcare Quality
Decent private hospitals in Kampala (International Hospital Kampala
Required Vaccines
1
Vaccinations
Required Vaccinations
Yellow Fever
Required for all travelers entering Uganda. You must show proof of vaccination at immigration. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before arrival.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus
- Rabies (especially if visiting remote areas or trekking)
- Meningitis
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Malaria Prevention
Malaria is present in Uganda. Take preventive measures seriously.
High-Risk Areas
- • Throughout the country, including Kampala and all national parks
Low-Risk Areas
Common Antimalarial Medications
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 Uganda. 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 Uganda
Decent private hospitals in Kampala (International Hospital Kampala, Norvik Hospital). Limited facilities in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential, especially for gorilla trekking in remote areas.
Healthcare Quality
Private hospitals in major cities offer good care and are recommended for tourists. Public hospitals may have long waits and limited resources.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Uganda. 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
Emergency Contacts
Emergency/Ambulance
911
Police
999
Fire
999
Tourist Police
+256 800 199 099