Travel Vaccines and Advice for Cote d’Ivoire
Cote d’Ivoire (also known as Ivory Coast) is a nation that has a prosperous history due to its production of cocoa. Despite its economic success, Ivory Coast has a history of political turmoil. There remains tension between different ethnic groups and political parties in the country.
The capital city of Cote d’Ivoire is Abidjan (though that is a recent change), the largest city in the country. Cote d’Ivoire’s other major cities include Bouake, Daloa and Korhogo.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Côte d’Ivoire?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Côte d’Ivoire
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Côte d’Ivoire
Do I Need a Visa for Cote d’Ivoire?
What Is the Climate Like in Cote d’Ivoire?
How Safe Is Cote d’Ivoire?
Pottery and Mountains in Cote d’Ivoire
What Should I Take to Cote d’Ivoire?
U.S. Embassy in Cote d’Ivoire
Do I Need Vaccines for Côte d’Ivoire?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Côte d’Ivoire. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Côte d’Ivoire: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, meningitis, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required for all travelers over 9 months of age. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Côte d’Ivoire |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required for all travelers over 9 months of age. |
Chikungunya | Mosquito | Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) |
Routine Vaccinations for Cote d’Ivoire |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, a potentially life-threatening illness caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water in areas with poor sanitation. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and safe food and water precautions.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever is a serious viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, characterized by fever, jaundice, and bleeding. The yellow fever vaccine, given as a single injection, provides effective, long-term immunity against the virus. It’s recommended for people living in or traveling to endemic areas, often a travel requirement.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, carried by Aedes mosquitoes, can be prevented by using mosquito repellents and eliminating standing water. Vaccination is recommended fro those traveling to regions effected by the disease.
- Rabies – Rabies, a fatal viral illness, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Prevention centers on vaccination, with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) necessary after possible exposure and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) recommended for individuals with increased risk, such as travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread via infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and vaccination. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, offering strong and enduring immunity against the virus.
- Meningitis – Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. The meningitis vaccine effectively protects against various types of meningitis, especially bacterial, crucial for preventing serious complications like brain damage or even death.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that can easily spread. Vaccination remains the primary defense against these threats. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, is a reliable way to bolster immunity and reduce the risk of infection and outbreaks.
Yellow Fever in Cote d’Ivoire
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Côte d’Ivoire. Travelers are advised to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival in the country. Vaccination is also recommended by the CDC and WHO to protect travelers from the virus.
Malaria in Cote d’Ivoire
Antimalarials are recommended for travelers to all regions of Côte d’Ivoire. Chloroquine resistance is present in the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if traveling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
Yellow fever, another mosquito-borne disease, is present in Cote d’Ivoire. Proof of vaccination is required for entry.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Côte d’Ivoire
Prevent Bug Bites in Cote d’Ivoire
In case of bug bites, cleanse the area, use anti-itch treatments, and resist scratching to prevent infection. Seek medical help for severe reactions or if symptoms of vector-borne diseases emerge post-bite.
Food and Water Safety in Cote d’Ivoire
When eating abroad, prioritize cooked and hot foods, choose reputable eateries, and practice good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages, avoid tap water, and enjoy hot drinks or alcohol responsibly. To avoid travelers’ diarrhea, follow these tips: eat well-prepared foods, drink safe water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be selective about local dishes.
Infections To Be Aware of in Cote d’Ivoire
- African Sleeping Sickness – In Africa, African Trypanosomiasis can be prevented through wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using insect repellent to reduce the risk of tsetse fly bites, which transmit the parasites causing the disease.
- African Tick-Bite Fever – In sub-Saharan Africa, African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is transmitted by ticks. Stay safe by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The CDC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
- Ebola – The Ebola virus spreads via bodily fluids and necessitates preventive measures like vaccination and rigorous hand hygiene. Vaccination is only available within areas with active transmission.
- Lassa Fever – Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic fever common in West Africa, is transmitted through rodents and direct human contact. While no vaccine is currently available, prevention relies on good hygiene, food safety, and healthcare workers’ precautions.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease carried by sand flies, poses a substantial health risk. Effective prevention includes protective measures like using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during sand fly peak hours.
- MERS – Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is caused by MERS-CoV and can lead to severe respiratory symptoms. Effective prevention measures include hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected people and camels, and following CDC travel advice.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection transmitted through contaminated water. Avoiding contact with infected water sources and using protective clothing can reduce the risk of infection. Seeking medical evaluation promptly if symptoms such as fever and fatigue manifest enables timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications and promoting recovery.
- Zika – Zika, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, can have severe consequences, especially for pregnant women. Prevention measures include using repellent, practicing safe sex, and removing mosquito breeding sites.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Côte d’Ivoire
- Polio – Côte d’Ivoire is one of many countries that has reported an instance of polio in the last 12 months. Travelers are advised to make sure their polio vaccination is up-to-date before travel to the region. Those who previously received a full set of polio immunization may need a single, lifetime booster shot.
Do I Need a Visa for Cote d’Ivoire?
A passport and visa are required for entry to Cote d’Ivoire. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is also required.
Cote d’Ivoire Entry Requirements |
||
Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Cote d’Ivoire? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ||
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Cote d’Ivoire and U.S. State Department
Passport Health has partnered with industry leaders in travel document services, RushMyPassport and G3 Travel Services. These teams will walk you through the Cote d’Ivoire visa process step-by-step and handle the sometimes difficult communication with embassies and consulates. Start your visa process today!
What Is the Climate Like in Cote d’Ivoire?
Cote d’Ivoire is a country with a tropical climate, which means it is usually warm and humid. The country has two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. The popular tourist destinations in Cote d’Ivoire are along the coast, including Abidjan, Grand Bassam, and Assinie.
Abidjan and Grand Bassam have a tropical savanna climate, which means they have two rainy seasons from April to July and from September to November, and a dry season from December to March. The temperature is usually between 75 to 90 degrees throughout the year.
Assinie has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it has a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The temperature is a bit cooler than Abidjan and Grand Bassam, usually ranging from 70 to 85.
When visiting these popular tourist destinations, travelers should expect warm and humid weather. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before traveling and to pack appropriate clothing.
How Safe Is Cote d’Ivoire?
Cote d’Ivoire is under a threat of terrorist activity with the last attack occurring in 2016. Although the country is not a hub for terrorism, it is in an area where terrorist activity is a threat.
The country’s army and police are in a transitional phase right now and may not be properly trained for their jobs. Stay away from any political demonstrations or protests.
Do not travel outside of major cities. Rural areas are hard to reach in Cote d’Ivoire and you will not be protected.
If you are traveling in a large city, you should dress modestly and not show signs of wealth. Tourists that are perceived as wealthy are often targets for robberies and carjackings.
Pottery and Mountains in Cote d’Ivoire
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Another popular tourist attraction is Cote d’Ivoire are its mountains. The most popular mountain to visit in the country is Mount Neinkoue, which is over 500 ft tall. The mountain is a popular destination due to its lush forests and dense wildlife. It’s also a part of Tai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In recent years, Tai National Park has also become a popular spot for ecotourism. The government hopes that the opportunity for ecotourism will improve the chimpanzee population. The average camping trip here usually lasts three days.
Other animals include pygmy hippopotamus, leopards, and tree pangolins.
Tai National Park has been found to be home to chimpanzees that carry the Ebola virus. Practice extreme caution.
What Should I Take to Cote d’Ivoire?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Cote d’Ivoire:
- Breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the often warm and humid weather.
- Shoes for hiking, if you plan to hike.
- Mosquito repellent and clothing that covers bare skin to prevent mosquito bites.
- Diarrhea can be common among travelers. It’s always best to be prepared with a travelers’ diarrhea kit.
- Modest clothing for visits to smaller towns or villages.
U.S. Embassy in Cote d’Ivoire
All Americans visiting Cote d’Ivoire should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Cote d’Ivoire, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Abidjan
Cocody Riviéra Golf, 01 BP 1712 Abidjan 01
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Phone: (+225) 22-49-40-00
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Cote d’Ivoire
Overall rating: 5 stars – 8 reviews
★★★★★
“Great experience!“
“I am preparing to leave in Cote d’Ivoire in a few short days and realized I had not looked into immunizations needed. Luckily, Passport Heath was able to get me in 2 days before my trip. The nurse was exceptional! She spent so much time detailing each vaccine, what to avoid in the areas I was traveling, and provided me a booklet with all the information. I really could not have asked for a better appointment. Thanks again!”
Submitted by: Jillian
★★★★★
“Excellent experience“
“We were treated well and educated into the immunizations we would need for our trip to Cote d’Ivoire. The information provided that is specific to Uganda will be of great value. We highly recommend Passport Health.”
Submitted by: Ronald
★★★★★
“Competency and Kindness“
“Yesterday I took my 17 year old daughter into Passport Health so that she could get appropriate immunizations for a ministry trip to Cote d’Ivoire. The folks at Passport Health clearly know their stuff, and I’m thankful for it. I could relax knowing that Sarah was being well prepared for her trip. The nurse was thorough and kind as she helped with the records and the administration of immunizations. The office staff were knowledgeable and supported us through the answering of questions as we walked through the process of making decisions about other products that would support a trip to Uganda. Thank you Passport Health.”
Submitted by: Deanna Fitzpatrick
★★★★★
“Helpful and knowledgeable“
“Your people are most helpful and you RN was very pleasant and most informative on the problems associated with traveling to Cote d’Ivoire.”
Submitted by: John
★★★★★
“Incredibly Efficient & knowledgeable“
“The staff at Passport Health were incredibly helpful and took the time to walk me through all the issues with my travel to Cote d’Ivoire. They advised me on how to take the pills, if I could mix them with current medicine, and what to look out for during my travel across Africa! I feel very confident and at ease, now. Thanks so much!”
Submitted by: Angela
★★★★★
“Excellent & Fast Service“
“I was late getting my immunizations for a trip to Cote d’Ivoire. The staff quickly scheduled my appointment and managed to get everything I needed quickly and efficiently.”
Submitted by: Karen
★★★★★
“Adam was professional and knowledgeable“
“My girlfriend and I are traveling to Cote d’Ivoire and came for travel vaccinations. As a pediatrician, I would instantly hire the nurse for my office. He was knowledgeable, informative and I can tell he excels at patient care. My girlfriend, a massage therapist, was worried about soreness in her arms. After assessing her deltoid, he opted for a 5/8th needle which she greatly appreciated. Overall a great experience and I will absolutely recommend this Passport Health to friends, families and patients.”
Submitted by: Greg
★★★★★
“Helpful Experience“
“My visit to Passport Health was a very pleasant one, and much more helpful and informational towards traveling than I expected it to be. The secretary was very friendly even from the phone scheduling, and then the nurse was knowledgeable and kind when I visited to get my shots. The booklet that I was given with all of the information on Cote d’Ivoire and even the airports is wonderful. Thank you to everyone involved for making this part of traveling so seamless!”
Submitted by: Megan
“I am preparing to leave in Cote d’Ivoire in a few short days and realized I had not looked into immunizations needed. Luckily, Passport Heath was able to get me in 2 days before my trip. The nurse was exceptional! She spent so much time detailing each vaccine, what to avoid in the areas I was traveling, and provided me a booklet with all the information. I really could not have asked for a better appointment. Thanks again!”
“We were treated well and educated into the immunizations we would need for our trip to Cote d’Ivoire. The information provided that is specific to Uganda will be of great value. We highly recommend Passport Health.”
“Yesterday I took my 17 year old daughter into Passport Health so that she could get appropriate immunizations for a ministry trip to Cote d’Ivoire. The folks at Passport Health clearly know their stuff, and I’m thankful for it. I could relax knowing that Sarah was being well prepared for her trip. The nurse was thorough and kind as she helped with the records and the administration of immunizations. The office staff were knowledgeable and supported us through the answering of questions as we walked through the process of making decisions about other products that would support a trip to Uganda. Thank you Passport Health.”
“Your people are most helpful and you RN was very pleasant and most informative on the problems associated with traveling to Cote d’Ivoire.”
“The staff at Passport Health were incredibly helpful and took the time to walk me through all the issues with my travel to Cote d’Ivoire. They advised me on how to take the pills, if I could mix them with current medicine, and what to look out for during my travel across Africa! I feel very confident and at ease, now. Thanks so much!”
“I was late getting my immunizations for a trip to Cote d’Ivoire. The staff quickly scheduled my appointment and managed to get everything I needed quickly and efficiently.”
“My girlfriend and I are traveling to Cote d’Ivoire and came for travel vaccinations. As a pediatrician, I would instantly hire the nurse for my office. He was knowledgeable, informative and I can tell he excels at patient care. My girlfriend, a massage therapist, was worried about soreness in her arms. After assessing her deltoid, he opted for a 5/8th needle which she greatly appreciated. Overall a great experience and I will absolutely recommend this Passport Health to friends, families and patients.”
“My visit to Passport Health was a very pleasant one, and much more helpful and informational towards traveling than I expected it to be. The secretary was very friendly even from the phone scheduling, and then the nurse was knowledgeable and kind when I visited to get my shots. The booklet that I was given with all of the information on Cote d’Ivoire and even the airports is wonderful. Thank you to everyone involved for making this part of traveling so seamless!”