Do I Need Any Vaccines For South America?

In order to prevent illness and disease when travelling to South America, the following travel vaccinations are recommended:

• Typhoid - at least 10 days before travel
• Hepatitis A - at least two weeks before travel
• Diphtheria - at least three months before travel (vaccination not required when travelling to the Falkland Islands)
• Tuberculosis - at least three months before travel (vaccination not required when travelling to the Falkland Islands)
• Hepatitis B - at least two months before travel (vaccination not required when travelling to the Falkland Islands)
• Rabies - at least one month before travel (vaccination not required when travelling to the Falkland Islands and the Pitcairn Islands)
• Yellow Fever - a certificate of vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow-fever infected country in Africa or the Americas, but it not recommended otherwise, and must be given at least 10 days before travel (vaccination not required when travelling to the Falkland Islands)

Please bear in mind that the vaccines mentioned above largely depend on where you intend on travelling to in South America.

In addition to this, these vaccines also depend on the frequency of your travels to South America and the amount of time spent in the country. If you travel more often or plan to stay for an extended period of time, we strongly recommend that you get vaccinated.

Please also note that it is vital that you discuss your personal requirements with a medical practitioner before travelling to South America.

Malaria Recommendations: The risk of contracting malaria in South America will vary according to each region. Be sure to check if the region you are travelling to is prone to malaria. If so, be sure to take adequate medication. Other preventive measures include: mosquito nets, creams and scented candels.