Vaccinations & Health Rules for Uganda: French Travellers 2026

Quick Answer: What Vaccinations Do French Travellers Need for Uganda?

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry to Uganda for all travellers aged 1 year and older, regardless of your departure country. You must present an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) at immigration. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel to allow immunity to develop. Beyond yellow fever, the CDC and UK health authorities recommend malaria prophylaxis, hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine immunizations for all French travellers to Uganda.

Vaccine	Required or Recommended?	Timing
Yellow Fever	Required for entry	At least 10 days before arrival
Malaria Prophylaxis	Strongly recommended (all regions)	Start 1–2 days before; continue during and after travel
Hepatitis A	Recommended for most travellers	2 doses, 6–12 months apart
Typhoid	Recommended (especially rural areas)	At least 1–2 weeks before travel
Meningococcal (ACWY)	Recommended	At least 2 weeks before travel
Routine (Tdap, MMR, Polio)	Required (up to date)	Before departure

Yellow Fever Certificate: Entry Requirements for French Travellers

Uganda requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all arriving travellers aged 1 year and older. This is a strict entry requirement enforced at immigration, regardless of your nationality or where you are arriving from.

Do You Need a Yellow Fever Certificate if You're Transiting Through Another Country?

France is not classified as a yellow fever-endemic country. However, if your itinerary includes transit or travel through yellow fever-endemic African countries (such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi, or 30+ others listed by the WHO) for more than 12 hours before or after Uganda, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Uganda. Some airlines and airports may also require proof of vaccination for transit purposes, so confirm with your carrier before departure.

Timing: When Should You Get Vaccinated?

The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival in Uganda for the certificate to be valid for entry. If you receive the vaccine fewer than 10 days before travel, immigration officials may refuse your entry, even if you have a signed certificate. Plan ahead and book your vaccination appointment as soon as you confirm your travel dates. Many French travel clinics (cliniques de voyage) offer appointments within 1–2 weeks; some can accommodate same-day or next-day appointments depending on availability.

International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)

Your yellow fever vaccine must be documented on an official International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), also known as the WHO Yellow Fever Card. This is the only proof of vaccination accepted by Uganda's immigration authorities. Keep the certificate with you at all times while in Uganda and ensure it is legible. Digital copies may not be accepted at immigration; carry the physical certificate as well. Since 2016, the WHO no longer requires yellow fever booster vaccinations—a single completed dose is valid for life.

Recommended Vaccinations for French Travellers to Uganda

Malaria: Risk, Prophylaxis, and Prevention

Malaria is present throughout Uganda, including in major cities and national parks. Antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all regions and all seasons. There is no malaria vaccine, but prescription medications can prevent infection when taken correctly.

Recommended antimalarial drugs: The CDC recommends atovaquone–proguanil (Malarone), doxycycline, mefloquine, or tafenoquine, depending on your medical history and itinerary. Chloroquine resistance is widespread in Uganda, so chloroquine is not recommended. Consult your travel medicine specialist 6–8 weeks before departure to determine which prophylaxis is best for you—not all regimens are suitable for all individuals or all regions.

Timing: Start antimalarial medication 1–2 days before arrival (or as advised by your doctor), continue daily during your stay, and complete the full course for 4 weeks after you leave Uganda.

Prevention beyond medication: Use insect repellent containing DEET (20–30%), wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening, sleep under an insecticide-treated bed net, and stay in air-conditioned or screened accommodation when possible. Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is recommended for most French travellers to Uganda, especially those staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities, or travelling to rural areas. The disease is spread through contaminated food and water. A 2-dose series provides long-term immunity; the doses are given 6–12 months apart. If time is limited, a single dose offers some protection; discuss timing with your travel clinic.

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is recommended, particularly if you plan to eat street food, stay outside major hotels, or visit rural areas. Two vaccine options exist: an injected vaccine (1 dose, lasts 2–3 years) and an oral vaccine (4 doses over 1 week, lasts 5 years). Both are effective; choose based on your schedule and preference. Administer at least 1–2 weeks before travel.

Meningococcal Meningitis (ACWY)

One dose of meningococcal vaccine (ACWY) is recommended for all travellers to Uganda. This protects against strains A, C, W, and Y. Administer at least 2 weeks before travel.

Routine Immunizations

Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations before travel:

• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis): Booster every 10 years
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella): 2 doses required; verify immunity
• Polio: Due to an increase in polio cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination.
• Influenza: Annual flu vaccine recommended, especially if travelling during flu season (November–April in the Northern Hemisphere)
• COVID-19: Stay current with the latest COVID-19 boosters as per your country's guidance

Cholera (Conditional)

Cholera vaccination may be considered for unvaccinated travellers aged 1 year and older travelling to areas of active cholera transmission, though the risk to tourists is generally low. The single-dose oral vaccine (Dukoral) provides about 90% protection for 3 months and 50–60% protection for up to 2 years. Discuss with your travel clinic if your itinerary includes remote areas or communities with poor sanitation.

Other Vaccines to Discuss with Your Doctor

Depending on your activities and health profile, your travel medicine specialist may also recommend:

• Hepatitis B: A 3-dose series for prolonged stays or if you may have contact with blood or body fluids
• Rabies: 3 doses (pre-exposure prophylaxis) if you will work with animals or spend extended time in remote areas
• Japanese Encephalitis: Not routinely recommended for Uganda but may be considered for certain high-risk activities
• Dengue: A vaccine (Dengvaxia) may be recommended for certain high-risk travellers; discuss availability in France

Health Documents & Travel Insurance

What Documents to Carry

Before departure, ensure you have:

• International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP): Original physical copy with yellow fever vaccination documented and signed by the administering healthcare provider
• Prescription copies: Written prescriptions or a letter from your doctor for any medications you are bringing (especially antimalarials, antibiotics, or any controlled substances)
• Medical history summary: A brief document (in English or French) outlining any chronic conditions, allergies, and current medications
• Travel health insurance certificate: Proof of coverage including evacuation insurance
• Vaccination record (personal copy): A photocopy or digital record of all vaccinations received, separate from your ICVP

Travel Health Insurance: Highly Recommended

Comprehensive travel health insurance is essential for Uganda travel. Ensure your policy covers:

• Medical evacuation (very important in remote safari areas)
• Emergency dental treatment
• Hospital admission and treatment
• Repatriation to France if seriously ill
• Coverage for adventure activities (if relevant to your itinerary)

Uganda's healthcare infrastructure is adequate in Kampala and major cities but limited in remote areas. Travel insurance is your safety net.

Medication Rules & What to Pack in Your Medical Kit

Bringing Medications into Uganda

Uganda allows travellers to bring personal medications for their own use, provided they are:

• In original, labelled containers with your name
• Accompanied by a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter (especially for antimalarials, antibiotics, or any scheduled medications)
• Not in quantities that suggest commercial intent

Carry medications in your hand luggage during flights, as checked baggage may be delayed or lost. Always carry a photocopy of prescriptions and a letter from your doctor in case you lose your medications.

Essential Items for Your Medical Kit

Pack the following in addition to any prescription medications:

• Antimalarial medication (as prescribed by your doctor)
• Broad-spectrum antibiotic (e.g., azithromycin) for travellers' diarrhea—consult your doctor before departure
• Antidiarrhoeal medication (loperamide)
• Anti-nausea medication (e.g., metoclopramide)
• Antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine) for allergies and insect bites
• Paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen for fever and pain
• Hydrocortisone cream (1%) for insect bites and skin irritation
• Antifungal cream (e.g., clotrimazole) for fungal infections
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent (DEET 20–30%)
• First-aid supplies: sterile gauze, adhesive plasters, tweezers, scissors, thermometer, pain relief patches
• Hand sanitizer and alcohol-based wipes
• Oral rehydration salts (for dehydration)

Health Facilities & Emergency Care in Uganda

Healthcare Quality & Availability

Major cities in Uganda, particularly Kampala, have good-quality private healthcare facilities. However, access to quality medical care is limited in remote areas and national parks. Before travelling, identify the nearest clinic or hospital to your accommodation.

Recommended hospitals in Kampala:

• Aga Khan Hospital (private, high standard)
• International Hospital Kampala (private, English-speaking staff)
• Mulago National Referral Hospital (public, limited resources)

Accessing Healthcare During Your Stay

If you fall ill:

• Contact your safari operator or hotel immediately—they often have relationships with local clinics
• Call your travel insurance provider's emergency line (keep the number accessible)
• For serious emergencies, request evacuation to Kampala or Kenya
• Pharmacies in major cities stock common medications, but availability of specific drugs may be limited

Diseases Present in Uganda to Be Aware Of

Uganda has reported cases of the following diseases; awareness is important for prevention:

• Malaria (throughout the country)
• Typhoid and hepatitis A (poor sanitation areas)
• Yellow fever (endemic in certain regions)
• Meningitis (seasonal outbreaks)
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• HIV
• Polio (rare but reported)
• Mpox and Marburg hemorrhagic fever (rare; contact with wildlife or infected individuals)
• Schistosomiasis (from freshwater exposure)
• Dengue and chikungunya (mosquito-borne)

Food and Water Safety

Travellers' diarrhea is common. Protect yourself by:

• Drinking only bottled or boiled water
• Avoiding ice cubes unless made from purified water
• Eating only cooked food served hot
• Avoiding raw vegetables, unpasteurised dairy, and undercooked meat
• Washing hands frequently with soap and clean water
• Using hand sanitizer when water is unavailable

Before You Travel: Planning Timeline for French Citizens

To ensure adequate preparation, follow this timeline:

• 8–12 weeks before departure: Book an appointment with a French travel clinic (centre de vaccination) or your doctor. Discuss your itinerary, medical history, and any concerns.
• 6–8 weeks before departure: Receive yellow fever vaccination and begin any multi-dose vaccine series (hepatitis A, typhoid, meningococcal). Start malaria prophylaxis discussions.
• 4–6 weeks before departure: Complete any remaining vaccinations and obtain your ICVP.
• 2–4 weeks before departure: Fill antimalarial prescriptions and assemble your medical kit. Confirm travel insurance coverage.
• 1 week before departure: Review Uganda's entry requirements, print vaccination certificates, and confirm your safari operator's health and safety protocols.

When planning your Uganda safari, you may wish to compare safari package costs and operators to find a provider with strong health and safety standards. You'll also need to complete your Uganda visa application for French citizens, which requires your yellow fever vaccination certificate as part of the submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

See the FAQ section below for common questions from French travellers.

Verification Note: Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Vaccination requirements, malaria risk, and health regulations change; verify yellow fever entry requirements and malaria risk with the CDC, the French Ministry of Health (Ministère de la Santé), or your travel health provider immediately before departure. This article is informational and does not constitute medical or legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do French citizens need a yellow fever vaccine to enter Uganda?

Yes. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travellers aged 1 year and older entering Uganda, regardless of nationality or departure country. You must present an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) at immigration. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival for the certificate to be valid.

What vaccinations are recommended for French travellers to Uganda?

Beyond yellow fever (required), the CDC recommends malaria prophylaxis (all regions), hepatitis A, typhoid, meningococcal (ACWY), polio booster, and routine immunizations (Tdap, MMR, influenza, COVID-19). Cholera and rabies may be considered depending on your activities and itinerary. Consult a travel medicine specialist 6–8 weeks before departure.

How long before travel should I get the yellow fever vaccine?

The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival in Uganda. If you receive it fewer than 10 days before travel, your certificate will not be valid for entry, and immigration may refuse you. Plan your vaccination appointment as soon as you confirm your travel dates.

Is malaria prevention mandatory for Uganda?

Malaria prophylaxis is not legally required but is strongly recommended by all health authorities for all regions of Uganda. There is no malaria vaccine, but prescription antimalarial medications (atovaquone–proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, or tafenoquine) are highly effective when taken correctly. Start 1–2 days before arrival and continue for 4 weeks after departure.

Can I transit through another African country and still enter Uganda without a yellow fever certificate?

If your itinerary includes transit or travel through a yellow fever-endemic African country (such as Kenya, Ethiopia, or Burundi) for more than 12 hours before or after Uganda, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Uganda. France itself is not yellow fever-endemic, but transit rules apply.

What is the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)?

The ICVP is the official WHO Yellow Fever Card documenting your yellow fever vaccination. It is the only proof of vaccination accepted by Uganda's immigration authorities. It must be signed by the healthcare provider who administered the vaccine, be legible, and you should carry the physical copy (not just a digital copy) at all times in Uganda.

How do I book a yellow fever vaccination appointment in France?

Contact a French travel clinic (centre de vaccination de voyage), your GP, or a public vaccination centre (centre de vaccination). Many clinics can accommodate appointments within 1–2 weeks. Some offer same-day or next-day appointments depending on availability. Book as soon as you confirm your travel dates to allow at least 10 days before departure.

Do I need travel health insurance for Uganda?

Highly recommended. Comprehensive travel health insurance should cover medical evacuation (essential in remote safari areas), emergency hospital admission, dental treatment, and repatriation to France if seriously ill. Uganda's healthcare infrastructure is adequate in Kampala but limited in remote areas.

Can I bring my antimalarial medication into Uganda?

Yes, you can bring prescription antimalarial medication for personal use, provided it is in original, labelled containers with your name and accompanied by a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter. Carry medications in your hand luggage during flights. Always carry a photocopy of prescriptions in case you lose your medications.

What should I pack in a medical kit for Uganda?

Pack antimalarial medication, antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin), antidiarrhoeal medication, antihistamine, paracetamol, ibuprofen, hydrocortisone cream, antifungal cream, sunscreen (SPF 50+), insect repellent (DEET 20–30%), first-aid supplies, oral rehydration salts, and hand sanitizer. Consult your doctor about specific items suited to your health profile.

How can I prevent malaria while in Uganda?

Take antimalarial medication as prescribed, use insect repellent containing DEET (20–30%), wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening, sleep under an insecticide-treated bed net, and stay in air-conditioned or screened accommodation. Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.

What healthcare facilities are available in Uganda?

Major cities like Kampala have good private healthcare (Aga Khan Hospital, International Hospital Kampala). However, access to quality care is limited in remote areas and national parks. Identify the nearest clinic to your accommodation before arrival, and ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation.