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Tanzania Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria |
Sometimes |
| Hepatitis A |
Yes |
| Malaria |
Yes |
| Rabies |
Sometimes |
| Tetanus |
Sometimes |
| Typhoid |
Yes |
| Yellow Fever |
No |
Healthcare facilities in Tanzania vary widely between urban and rural areas. In major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Dodoma, there are private hospitals and clinics offering a reasonable standard of care, often used by expatriates and visitors. However, facilities in smaller towns and rural regions can be limited, and medical equipment and specialist services may not always be available.
Pharmacies are widely available in cities and larger towns, and many common medications can be purchased without a prescription. However, supplies may be inconsistent, particularly outside urban areas. Visitors are advised to bring an adequate supply of any prescription medication they require, along with a copy of the prescription and a letter from a doctor if carrying controlled drugs.
Travel insurance with medical cover is strongly recommended, including cover for emergency evacuation, as serious medical cases are often transferred to facilities outside the country. Payment is usually required upfront at private clinics and hospitals. In addition, foreign visitors to Zanzibar are required to obtain mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation for the duration of their stay.
Malaria is present in most parts of Tanzania, including popular tourist areas, and travellers are generally advised to take antimalarial medication as a precaution. The appropriate medication will depend on individual health and travel plans, so it is advisable to consult a doctor or travel clinic before departure. In addition to medication, visitors should take measures to avoid mosquito bites, particularly in the evening and at night, by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and sleeping under mosquito nets where provided.
Basic hygiene precautions, such as handwashing and the use of sanitiser, are advisable, particularly when travelling in remote areas. Visitors should also take care to avoid insect bites and excessive sun exposure, especially in coastal and lowland regions.
Tap water in Tanzania is not considered safe to drink. Visitors should use bottled or properly filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth, and avoid ice unless it is known to be made from purified water. Milk and dairy products are generally safe when pasteurised, particularly in hotels and established restaurants, but unpasteurised milk should be avoided. As with food, it is advisable to eat at reputable establishments and ensure that meals are freshly prepared and thoroughly cooked. Fruit should be peeled where possible, and care should be taken with raw vegetables and salads, especially in smaller or less hygienic settings.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, can occur in busy urban areas, particularly in Dar es Salaam and other large towns. It is advisable to avoid displaying valuables, use hotel safes where available and take care when walking after dark.
Wildlife presents an obvious risk in national parks and rural areas. Animals should always be observed from a safe distance and only with experienced guides. Walking alone in or near wildlife areas is not recommended.
As with many destinations, travellers should remain aware of local conditions and follow advice from authorities and guides.
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