Many countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination for travellers arriving from or transiting through Sub-Saharan Africa-even if you yourself were not in a yellow fever zone. This is an entry requirement, not optional. Get your yellow fever jab at a NICD-accredited port of entry health centre and always carry your yellow card (International Certificate of Vaccination, ICV).
Core Vaccinations-Keep These Updated
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)
Booster every 10 years. Check your vaccination record. Available from your GP or Dis-Chem pharmacy clinic.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
Two doses required for lifetime protection. Check your records-many SA students are missing the second dose.
Hepatitis B
3-dose series. Most SA students received this through the national programme-confirm your records. Essential for all international travel.
COVID-19
Up-to-date vaccination recommended. Some countries still require proof. Check entry requirements for your destination 4 weeks before departure.
Destination-Specific Vaccinations
Bali / Indonesia and Southeast Asia
Transmitted via contaminated food and water. 2-dose series covers you for 25+ years. Get the first dose at least 2 weeks before departure.
Oral or injectable. Protects for 3-7 years. Especially important if eating local street food (which you absolutely should).
Risk is very low in urban Bali/Seminyak areas. Higher if spending time in rice fields or rural areas. 2-dose course over 28 days.
Dengvaxia (dengue vaccine) is only for people who have had dengue before. For first-timers: use DEET insect repellent, wear long clothes at dawn/dusk, stay in air-conditioned rooms where possible.
Europe and UK (Barcelona, London)
No destination-specific vaccines required. Core vaccinations (Tdap, MMR, Hep B) should be up to date. Confirm COVID requirements. If travelling via regions with yellow fever risk, carry your yellow card.
Tip: Hepatitis A is still recommended as a precaution, particularly if you plan to eat at local markets and restaurants regularly.
Dubai / UAE
No special vaccines required for the UAE. Core vaccinations (Tdap, MMR, Hep B) must be up to date. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from Sub-Saharan Africa-always carry your yellow card.
Where to Get Vaccinated in South Africa
Travel Clinics (Recommended)
Specialized travel medicine clinics issue the yellow card and stock all travel vaccines. Examples: Clinix Health Group, Netcare Travel Clinics, AMCARE, MedTravel SA. Search "travel clinic near me" on your medical aid website.
Yellow Fever Centres
Only NICD-accredited yellow fever vaccination centres can issue the official ICV (yellow card). Find your nearest centre at nicd.ac.za. Cost: approximately R400-R600 including the certificate.
Dis-Chem / Clicks Pharmacy Clinics
Good for standard vaccinations (flu, Tdap, Hep A, Hep B). Cannot issue yellow fever. Quick, no appointment needed. Costs vary: Hep A approx R400-R600/dose.
Medical Aid Coverage
Discovery Health, Momentum, Bonitas cover some vaccinations under preventive care benefits. Check your plan-some vaccines may be covered in full. Call your medical aid before booking.
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