Vaccinations & Health Rules for Mozambique 2026: Austrian Citizens

Quick Answer: Do Austrian Citizens Need Vaccinations for Mozambique?

Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry if you are arriving from a yellow fever-risk country or have transited more than 12 hours through an airport in a yellow fever zone—Austria is not endemic, so direct travel from Austria does not trigger this requirement. However, the CDC and WHO strongly recommend hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines (MMR, polio, Tdap) for all unvaccinated travellers. Malaria prophylaxis is essential: the CDC recommends chemoprophylaxis for all areas of Mozambique.

Yellow Fever Certificate: Entry Rules for Austrian Travellers

Mozambique's yellow fever requirement is route-based, not nationality-based. You must present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) if you:

• Arrive from a country with yellow fever transmission risk (including most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America), OR
• Have transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in a yellow fever-endemic country.

Austria is not a yellow fever-endemic country. If you are travelling directly from Austria to Mozambique without stopping in a yellow fever zone, you do not need the vaccine or certificate for entry. However, if your route includes a stopover or connection in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Angola, or another WHO-designated yellow fever country, the certificate becomes mandatory.

The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before departure and is valid for life under international health regulations (as of July 2016). Your ICVP must be issued by an approved yellow fever vaccination centre and carried at border control.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Timing & Certificate Validity

Requirement	Detail
Vaccination timing	Must be given at least 10 days before travel.
Certificate validity	Valid for life; no booster required for re-entry.
Direct travel from Austria	Not required.
Transit through yellow fever zone (12+ hours)	Required.
Document to carry	Original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).

Recommended Vaccinations for Mozambique (Not Legal Entry Requirements)

While yellow fever is the only legally mandated vaccine for entry from certain routes, the CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for all Austrian travellers to Mozambique:

Hepatitis A

Recommended for all unvaccinated travellers of all ages. Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food and water. Risk is elevated in rural areas and when staying with friends or relatives. The vaccine series requires two doses given 6–12 months apart; the first dose offers protection starting 2–4 weeks after administration.

Typhoid

Recommended for most travellers, especially those staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities, or travelling to rural areas. Typhoid is transmitted through contaminated food and water. Confirm the current vaccine options and timing with your travel health clinic, as formulations vary.

Routine Vaccines

Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) – Two doses required; cases are rising globally.
• Polio (IPV) – A booster dose is now recommended for most adult travellers to any destination due to increased global cases.
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) – One adult booster of pertussis is sufficient.
• Chickenpox (varicella) – Two doses if you have not had chickenpox.
• COVID-19 – All eligible travellers should be up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccines before international travel.

Rabies (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Pre-exposure rabies vaccination may be considered for long-term travellers or those with extensive outdoor exposure, particularly in safari or wildlife settings. Consult your travel health provider to assess your individual risk based on your planned activities.

Malaria: Risk, Prophylaxis & Prevention

Malaria is endemic in all areas of Mozambique. The CDC recommends prescription antimalarial chemoprophylaxis for all travellers, regardless of region or duration of stay.

Malaria Transmission & Drug Resistance

Factor	Detail
Transmission areas	All regions of Mozambique.
Primary parasite species	Plasmodium falciparum (most common); P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. vivax (less common).
Drug resistance	Chloroquine resistance is documented.
Recommended chemoprophylaxis	Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, or tafenoquine.

Antimalarial Medication Timing

The timing for starting antimalarial medication varies by drug:

• Atovaquone-proguanil – Start 1–2 days before arrival; continue during stay and for 7 days after departure.
• Doxycycline – Start 1–2 days before arrival; continue during stay and for 4 weeks after departure.
• Mefloquine – Start 2–3 weeks before arrival; continue during stay and for 4 weeks after departure.
• Tafenoquine – Single pre-travel dose; confirm exact timing with your doctor.

Your travel health provider will recommend the best option based on your medical history, drug interactions, and planned activities. When planning a Mozambique safari tour, discuss your itinerary with your doctor to ensure appropriate malaria prevention for the parks and regions you will visit.

Malaria Prevention: Non-Medication Measures

In addition to chemoprophylaxis, reduce mosquito exposure:

• Use DEET-based insect repellent (20–30% concentration) on exposed skin.
• Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Sleep under an insecticide-treated bed net in areas without air conditioning.
• Stay in air-conditioned or screened accommodation when possible.

Other Health Risks in Mozambique

Beyond vaccine-preventable diseases, travellers should be aware of:

• Dengue – Transmitted by daytime-active mosquitoes; no vaccine available. Use insect repellent and protective clothing.
• Schistosomiasis – Parasitic infection from contaminated freshwater. Avoid swimming in untreated water bodies.
• Mpox – Respiratory and contact-transmitted viral infection. Maintain good hand hygiene and avoid contact with ill persons.
• Cholera – Currently occurring in central and northern Mozambique. Drink only bottled or boiled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.

Health Documents & Travel Insurance

Before departure, prepare the following documents:

• International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) – Carry the original yellow fever certificate if you have been vaccinated or if your route triggers the requirement.
• Vaccination record – Keep a record (digital or paper) of all vaccinations received, including dates and administration sites.
• Travel insurance – Obtain comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation, emergency treatment, and repatriation. Most healthcare providers in Mozambique accept cash only; your insurance company must be notified immediately if you are referred for treatment.
• Prescription medications – Carry medications in original labelled containers with a copy of your prescription or letter from your doctor.
• Medical alert identification – If you have allergies or chronic conditions, carry identification (e.g., MedicAlert bracelet or card).

Medications: Rules & What to Pack

The legal status and regulation of medicines prescribed or bought in Austria may differ significantly in Mozambique. Before travelling:

• Carry all medications in original labelled containers with your name and dosage clearly marked.
• Obtain a letter from your prescribing doctor describing your condition and listing the medication (generic and brand names, dosage, and frequency).
• Check whether your medication is legal in Mozambique; some prescription drugs may be restricted or unavailable. Consult TravelHealthPro or your doctor for guidance on specific medicines.
• Pack medications in your carry-on luggage, not checked baggage, in case of delays or loss.
• Bring an adequate supply for your entire trip plus extra in case of unexpected extension; replacement may be difficult.

Over-the-Counter Medications to Pack

Consider bringing:

• Anti-diarrhoea medication (e.g., loperamide)
• Antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine)
• Antacid
• Pain reliever (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
• Antibiotic ointment and adhesive plasters
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Insect repellent (20–30% DEET)
• Antimalarial medication (as prescribed)

Healthcare in Mozambique & Emergency Contacts

Healthcare quality in Mozambique varies significantly. Urban centres have better facilities, but rural areas may lack advanced care.

• Emergency ambulance: Call 848888 or 823388 and request an ambulance.
• Private healthcare: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) maintains a list of English-speaking medical providers in Mozambique. Contact your insurance company immediately if referred for treatment.
• Hospitals: Private hospitals in Maputo and other major cities are generally safer and cleaner than public facilities; they accept cash or credit card payments.
• Pharmacies: Medicines are available in pharmacies in major cities, though availability is inconsistent. Bring an adequate supply of any essential medications.

Before You Travel: Final Checklist

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• Book an appointment with a travel health clinic or your GP for vaccinations and antimalarial prescription.
• Review the latest vaccine recommendations for Mozambique with your healthcare provider.
• Obtain travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
• Check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from Mozambique (required for Mozambique visa entry).
• If planning a safari, review health and safety considerations for wildlife parks.
• Arrange malaria chemoprophylaxis with your doctor and obtain a prescription.
• Confirm your route: if transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country, ensure you receive the yellow fever vaccine.
• Gather copies of vaccination records and medical prescriptions.

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Health entry requirements and disease outbreaks change; consult the CDC, WHO, UK FCDO, or your national health authority for the latest information before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Austrian citizens need a yellow fever vaccination to enter Mozambique?

Only if you are arriving from a yellow fever-endemic country or have transited more than 12 hours through a yellow fever zone. Austria is not endemic, so direct travel from Austria to Mozambique does not require the vaccine or certificate. However, if your route includes a stopover in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Angola, or another WHO-designated yellow fever country, you must present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) at entry.

How long before travel must I receive the yellow fever vaccine?

The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your departure date. It is valid for life; no booster is required for re-entry to Mozambique or other countries.

What vaccinations does the CDC recommend for Mozambique?

The CDC recommends hepatitis A, typhoid, routine vaccines (MMR, polio, Tdap, chickenpox), and COVID-19 for all unvaccinated travellers. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination may be considered for those with extensive outdoor or wildlife exposure. Malaria chemoprophylaxis is essential for all regions.

Is malaria a risk in all parts of Mozambique?

Yes, malaria transmission occurs in all areas of Mozambique. The CDC recommends antimalarial chemoprophylaxis for all travellers, regardless of region or length of stay. The primary parasite species is Plasmodium falciparum, which is chloroquine-resistant.

What antimalarial medications are recommended for Mozambique?

The CDC recommends atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, or tafenoquine. Timing varies by drug: atovaquone-proguanil starts 1–2 days before arrival and continues for 7 days after departure; doxycycline starts 1–2 days before and continues for 4 weeks after; mefloquine starts 2–3 weeks before and continues for 4 weeks after. Consult your travel health provider to select the best option for your medical history.

Do I need travel insurance for Mozambique?

Yes. Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Most healthcare providers in Mozambique accept cash only, and facilities in rural areas are limited. Your insurance company must be notified immediately if you are referred for treatment.

What should I pack for health and safety in Mozambique?

Pack antimalarial medication (as prescribed), insect repellent (20–30% DEET), sunscreen (SPF 30+), anti-diarrhoea medication, antihistamine, pain reliever, antibiotic ointment, and plasters. Carry all prescription medications in original labelled containers with a doctor's letter. Bring an adequate supply of essential medicines, as replacement may be difficult.

What is the emergency medical number in Mozambique?

Call 848888 or 823388 and request an ambulance. Contact your travel insurance company immediately if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Are there any current disease outbreaks in Mozambique I should know about?

Mozambique is currently experiencing a cholera outbreak in central and northern areas. Drink only bottled or boiled water and eat thoroughly cooked food. Dengue, schistosomiasis, and mpox are also present. Check the UK FCDO or CDC website for the latest health advisories before travel.

Can I bring prescription medications from Austria into Mozambique?

Yes, but the legal status and regulation of medicines may differ. Carry medications in original labelled containers with a prescription letter from your doctor describing your condition and listing the medication (generic and brand names, dosage, and frequency). Check whether your specific medication is legal in Mozambique with your doctor or TravelHealthPro before departure.

How far in advance should I book a travel health consultation?

Book at least 8 weeks before departure. This allows time for multi-dose vaccine series (e.g., hepatitis A requires two doses 6–12 months apart) and for antimalarial medication to be prescribed and obtained before your trip.

What is the difference between yellow fever vaccine recommendations and entry requirements?

The CDC may recommend the vaccine as a precaution for certain travellers, but Mozambique legally requires proof of vaccination only if you are arriving from a yellow fever-endemic country or have transited over 12 hours through one. Austria is not endemic, so the entry requirement does not apply to direct travel from Austria; however, the vaccine is still recommended if your itinerary includes yellow fever-risk regions.