Recommended vaccines for traveling to Senegal

Yellow fever is the only vaccine that may actually be checked when you land in Senegal. Everything else, hepatitis A and B, typhoid and routine boosters, is strongly advised rather than compulsory, and depends on how long you stay and what you plan to do. Start four to six weeks before departure, since some schedules need two doses. This article is informational only: consult a healthcare professional before making any decision.

Yellow fever: the shot that can be checked at the border

An international certificate against yellow fever may be requested on arrival, especially if you are coming from, or have transited through, a country where the disease circulates, typically in Central Africa or South America. Travellers flying straight from Europe are rarely asked, but checks do happen and rules change, so confirm with the Senegalese consulate before you book.

• The injection must be given at least ten days before arrival for the certificate to be valid.
• Most countries now recognise the certificate for life, with no routine booster.
• Pregnant travellers, immunocompromised people and very young children may not be eligible. Only a doctor can assess a contraindication.

Hepatitis, typhoid and the boosters people forget

• Hepatitis A: suggested for almost every traveller, as it spreads through water and food.
• Hepatitis B: commonly recommended for long stays, medical placements, volunteering, or if you are relocating.
• Typhoid: relevant if you eat regularly outside hotels, at street stalls, with family or upcountry.
• Routine boosters: diphtheria, tetanus, polio, whooping cough, measles. These are the ones most often out of date.
• Rabies and meningitis: considered for long rural stays, contact with animals, or travel towards the Sahel.

Malaria is a different matter: protection rests on bed nets, repellents and, when a doctor prescribes them, preventive tablets. Mosquitoes are most active during the rainy season, roughly July to October, in Dakar as much as in Casamance or the Sine Saloum.

Where to get vaccinated in Dakar

Ideally you finish everything at an international vaccination centre at home. If you are already here, or you live in Senegal, the capital offers private clinics, public health structures and neighbourhood practices.

• Plateau and Point E: a dense cluster of clinics and doctors' practices, handy if you are staying downtown.
• Almadies, Ngor, Ouakam, Mermoz: many private facilities used by expatriates and the diaspora.
• Sacre Coeur, Liberte 6, Castors: mid sized clinics that suit families based in the city.
• Yoff, Parcelles Assainies, Pikine, Guediawaye, Keur Massar, Rufisque, Diamniadio: public health posts and centres, practical for routine boosters.

As a rough guide, a private clinic consultation costs 10 000 to 25 000 FCFA, and a single dose often falls between 15 000 and 40 000 FCFA, imported products being the most expensive. Public facilities charge much less. Call ahead before crossing town, because yellow fever stock comes and goes.

The yellow card is the document that really counts

The certificate must show your name exactly as it appears on your passport, the date of the injection, the batch number and the stamp of an approved centre. Without a valid stamp it can be rejected at a border check.

• Photograph every page and keep a copy on your phone and in your inbox.
• Carry the card in your hand luggage, never in the hold.
• If you live in Senegal, keep the children's cards too: schools ask for them at enrolment.
• Check what your travel insurance covers, since some policies reimburse preventive vaccination and others do not.
• In an emergency: Police 17, Fire and rescue 18, SAMU 1515.

Recommended addresses on SeneFinder

• Clinique Croix Bleue : Castors, medical clinic.

To compare other health facilities in the capital, see all addresses.

Useful tools

• Route planner: plan trips between downtown and the outer neighbourhoods.
• Currency converter: work out consultation costs in FCFA.
• Practical guide: emergency numbers, transport and arrival basics.
• Also worth reading: the best clinics in Dakar and health insurance in Senegal.

Frequently asked questions

Is the yellow fever vaccine mandatory for Senegal?

It can be required, particularly if you arrive from or have transited through a country where yellow fever circulates. Check the current rule with the consulate and plan the injection at least ten days before you land.

How far ahead should I get vaccinated?

Allow four to six weeks, because some schedules involve two spaced doses. If you are leaving sooner, still see a healthcare professional.

Can I get vaccinated after arriving in Dakar?

Yes, private clinics and public facilities in Dakar offer most of these vaccines, although availability varies. For yellow fever, only an approved centre issues a valid international certificate.