Land healthy. Stay healthy.
See a certified travel medicine physician 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Sources: NCDC, WHO Nigeria.
Last reviewed May 2026
Disease risk overview.
Malaria
EXTREME→ Chemoprophylaxis mandatory
One of the world’s highest malaria burdens. Start Malarone, mefloquine, or doxycycline 1 to 2 weeks before travel.
Yellow Fever
HIGH→ Required for entry
Certificate mandatory at all ports of entry, no exceptions. Unvaccinated travellers face denial at origin.
Typhoid
HIGH→ Vaccination recommended
High risk from contaminated food and water. Avoid street food and untreated water.
Lassa Fever
HIGH→ Avoid rodent contact
Endemic in Edo, Ondo, Ebonyi, Bauchi, and others. Avoid rodents, bush meat, and contaminated surfaces.
Hepatitis A and B
MODERATE→ Vaccination recommended
A spreads via food and water, B via blood and bodily fluids. Both recommended for all travellers.
Meningococcal
MODERATE→ Essential up north
Meningitis Belt states north of 11°N. Risk peaks November to May; mandatory for Hajj and Umrah.
Cholera
MODERATE→ Bottled water only
Seasonal outbreaks in flood-affected states. Bottled or boiled water only; no ice from unknown sources.
The vaccination timeline.
Frequently asked.
Is the Yellow Fever vaccine required for Nigeria?
Yes. A valid Yellow Card is required to enter; carry the original, not a photo. Vaccinate at least 10 days before travel for the certificate to be valid. Entry requirements →
Do I need malaria medication for Nigeria?
Yes, including returning diaspora. See a travel medicine physician 4 to 6 weeks out; typical prophylaxis is Atovaquone-proguanil or Doxycycline. Use DEET repellent and treated nets.
What vaccinations are recommended?
Required: Yellow Fever. Recommended: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Meningococcal (northern dry season), Rabies for extended stays, Cholera for remote areas. Keep routine vaccines current.
Is Lassa Fever a risk for visitors?
Endemic but low-risk for most visitors. It spreads via rodents and their droppings. Maintain hygiene, avoid rodent contact, and seek care for any fever within three weeks of returning.
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The vaccination timeline, pharmacy checklist, and clinic scripts in one PDF. Subscribers get it first.
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