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West Africa

🇸🇳 Vaccines for Senegal

Entry requirements & recommendations for travel to Senegal

Senegal requires Yellow Fever vaccination for entry — a firm requirement. Malaria risk exists in most areas (lower in Dakar than elsewhere), making antimalarial medication recommended for most visits. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Meningococcal vaccines are also recommended, with meningococcal relevant given Senegal's position relative to the meningitis belt, particularly during the dry season. Senegal is one of the more politically stable countries in West Africa, with Dakar being a significant regional hub and a relatively well-developed tourism sector for the region, including beach destinations and cultural sites connected to its history in the Atlantic slave trade (Gorée Island). Healthcare in Dakar is reasonable by regional standards; rural areas have more limited facilities.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information only — not personal medical advice. Requirements and risks change. Always consult a qualified travel health clinic before departure.
Required for entry
Yellow Fever
Certificate required for entry.
💉 1 dose (lifetime)
📅 Book at least 3 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 10 days after vaccination. Certificate valid for life.
🛡 Protects for: Lifetime (single dose).
Required for entry
Recommended by WHO & CDC
Hepatitis A
Food and water contamination risk.
💉 2 doses
📅 Book at least 4 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after 1st dose. Full protection after 2nd dose (6–12 months later).
🛡 Protects for: 1st dose ~1 yr. 2nd dose: lifetime.
Recommended
Typhoid
Contaminated food and water.
💉 1 dose
📅 Book at least 3 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after vaccination.
🛡 Protects for: 3–5 years. Booster recommended if re-exposure.
Recommended
Meningococcal
Meningitis belt — recommended dry season.
💉 1 dose
📅 Book at least 3 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after vaccination.
🛡 Protects for: 5 years. Booster if ongoing risk.
Recommended
Disease risks
  • ⚠Malaria (most areas, lower in Dakar)
  • ⚠Yellow Fever
  • ⚠Meningococcal disease
  • ⚠Schistosomiasis
Approximate cost per person
Required vaccines
~€74
(~$81)
per person · full courses
Yellow Fever (1 dose)€74 ($81)
Recommended vaccines
~€309
(~$336)
per person · full courses
Hepatitis A (2 doses)€140 ($152)
Typhoid (1 dose)€45 ($49)
Meningococcal ACWY (1 dose)€60 ($65)
Malaria tablets (4 weeks) (1 dose)€64 ($70)

💡 Approximate figures based on private European travel clinic rates (April 2026). Actual costs vary by clinic and country. Not all recommended vaccines will apply to every trip — discuss your specific itinerary with a travel health clinic.

Often combined with
NigeriaGhanaCôte d'IvoireMali
Common questions
Do I need Yellow Fever vaccine for Senegal?
Yes, this is a firm requirement for entry to Senegal for all travellers, and proof of vaccination is checked. The certificate must be at least 10 days old before arrival.
Do I need malaria tablets for Senegal?
Generally yes, for most visits. Malaria risk exists in most areas of Senegal, with Dakar carrying somewhat lower risk than elsewhere, but most itineraries extend beyond Dakar, so antimalarial medication is typically recommended.
What other vaccines are needed for Senegal?
Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Meningococcal are all recommended alongside the mandatory Yellow Fever vaccination. Meningococcal vaccination is relevant given Senegal's position relative to the African meningitis belt, with risk highest during the dry season.
Is Senegal safe to visit?
Senegal is generally considered one of the more politically stable countries in West Africa, with Dakar functioning as a significant regional hub for business and diplomacy. Standard precautions apply as for any destination, but Senegal doesn't carry the broad security advisories that affect some neighbouring Sahel countries. Some border areas, particularly in the south near Guinea-Bissau, warrant checking current advisories.