Required Vaccinations for Traveling to Ethiopia

1. Yellow Fever Vaccine: If you are traveling from or transiting through a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, it is mandatory to get the yellow fever vaccine. This requirement is applicable to all travelers, including children older than nine months. You will need to provide a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Ethiopia if you have been to a country at risk.

2. Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations recommended in your home country. These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, and varicella (chickenpox).

3. Hepatitis A: Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended for all travelers to Ethiopia. Hepatitis A is a viral infection spread via contaminated food and water, so it is important to take precautions with your diet and maintain good hygiene practices during your trip.

4. Typhoid: Typhoid vaccination is also advisable for travelers to Ethiopia, as typhoid fever is present in the country. It is usually transmitted through contaminated food and water. Taking precautions with food and water consumption is essential, even if you receive the vaccine.

5. Hepatitis B: The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for travelers who might have intimate contact with local residents or engage in activities that could lead to exposure to blood or other bodily fluids. This includes sexual contact, medical treatment, and procedures involving needles or other sharp instruments.

6. Rabies: Rabies vaccination may be considered if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors, engaging in activities that could bring you into close contact with animals or if you plan to visit remote areas where access to medical care may be limited.

7. Meningitis: If you are planning to visit Ethiopia during the dry season (December to June), when the risk of meningitis is higher, it is recommended to get vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis. This is especially important if you will be in close contact with locals or attending mass gatherings.

8. Measles Vaccine: Ethiopian health authorities recommend measles vaccination for all travelers above the age of six months (without documentation of vaccination or immunity). Measles is highly contagious, so ensuring you are protected is essential for your own health and the prevention of transmission.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist to get personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. They will be able to assess any additional vaccinations or precautions you may need for your specific travel plans in Ethiopia.

Stay informed about any travel restrictions or travel rules in place, as they may vary depending on your destination within the country.