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West Africa

🇸🇱 Vaccines for Sierra Leone

Entry requirements & recommendations for travel to Sierra Leone

Yellow Fever required for entry. Malaria is endemic and antimalarials are essential. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Meningococcal vaccines all recommended. Rabies worth considering.

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.
💉 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
Hepatitis B
Blood and sexual contact.
💉 3 doses
📅 Book at least 26 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: After full 3-dose course. Accelerated 3-week schedule available — ask your clinic.
🛡 Protects for: Lifetime after full course.
Recommended
Disease risks
  • ⚠Malaria (high risk)
  • ⚠Yellow Fever
  • ⚠Lassa Fever
  • ⚠Cholera
Approximate cost per person
Required vaccines
~€74
(~$81)
per person · full courses
Yellow Fever (1 dose)€74 ($81)
Recommended vaccines
~€438
(~$478)
per person · full courses
Hepatitis A (2 doses)€140 ($152)
Typhoid (1 dose)€45 ($49)
Hepatitis B (3 doses)€189 ($207)
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
NigeriaGhanaSenegalCôte d'Ivoire
When to book

Book 6–8 weeks before travel to Sierra Leone. Yellow Fever certificate must be 10 days old on arrival. Malaria tablets need to start before travel — timing depends on which antimalarial you choose. Meningococcal, Hepatitis A and Typhoid can be done 2–4 weeks before departure.

Common questions
Do I need Yellow Fever vaccine for Sierra Leone?
Yes. Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry to Sierra Leone. You must carry the International Certificate of Vaccination and it must be at least 10 days old on arrival.
Do I need malaria tablets for Sierra Leone?
Yes. Malaria is endemic throughout Sierra Leone. Antimalarials are essential for all visits. Discuss the right option with a travel clinic.
What other vaccines are needed for Sierra Leone?
Meningococcal, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies are recommended for Sierra Leone. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Is tap water safe in Sierra Leone?
No. Do not drink tap water in Sierra Leone. Use bottled water throughout your trip.

Data based on WHO International Travel and Health and CDC Yellow Book 2026. Last verified: April 2026. Always verify current requirements with a travel health clinic before departure.