March 28, 2025, 8:37 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Namibia, which is located in southern Africa, attracts visitors with its impressive desert landscapes, wild animals, and unique nature. Anyone planning a trip there should find out about recommended vaccinations in advance in order to stay healthy. This applies to both standard vaccinations and specific travel vaccinations. TRAVELBOOK provides an overview of which vaccinations are important for Namibia.
There are generally no compulsory vaccinations required for entry into Namibia. However, there is an exception if travelers arrive from a yellow fever area or have had a longer stopover there — a yellow fever vaccination is then required. Apart from this, it is advisable to check your own vaccinations and supplement them if necessary. In addition to standard vaccinations such as tetanus or diphtheria, vaccinations against hepatitis A and, in the case of certain risk factors, also against rabies, typhoid, or meningococcus are particularly advisable for Namibia. Which vaccinations are actually advisable depends on the itinerary and the planned activities.
Overview
Which Vaccinations Are Mandatory for Namibia?
There are no legally required vaccinations for Namibia for direct entry from Germany. However, a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if travelers come from a yellow fever area or have been in transit there for more than 12 hours. This rule applies to all persons aged nine months and over. Namibia itself is not a yellow fever area.
Recommended Vaccinations for Namibia
For Travelers in General
- Standard vaccinations according to the STIKO vaccination calendar (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, poliomyelitis, measles)
- Hepatitis A (protection against liver inflammation caused by contaminated food or water)
For Travelers with Special Risks
- Hepatitis B (for close contact with locals or long-term stays)
- Rabies (especially for trekking travelers, long-term stays, or contact with animals)
- Typhoid (when traveling to regions with poor hygienic conditions)
- Meningococcal disease (ACWY) (recommended for trips to the north of Namibia)
- Dengue fever (for long-term stays or particular exposure to mosquitoes)
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Is There an Increased Risk of Infection in Namibia With No Vaccination?
Yes, in Namibia, there is a risk of infection for diseases for which there is no vaccine:
- Dengue fever (transmission by mosquitoes, protection with prophylaxis)
- Schistosomiasis (through contact with infected freshwater sources, e.g. rivers or lakes)
- Intestinal infections (e.g., cholera, protection through strict hygiene)
- Malaria (transmission by mosquitoes)
Sources
- Federal Foreign Office: www.auswaertiges-amt.de
- Tropeninstitut.de: www.tropeninstitut.de