South Africa Travel Health Guide for US Travelers
A physician-reviewed health and safety guide for Americans traveling to the Republic of South Africa
As of March 2026, the U.S. Department of State advises Americans to Exercise Increased Caution in South Africa due to crime and civil unrest. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in downtown areas of major cities after dark. Always check the latest advisory at travel.state.gov before departing.
Before You Travel to South Africa
South Africa is a stunning destination known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife safaris, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. While it has better healthcare infrastructure than most African countries, US travelers should still take precautions. Plan to see a travel medicine physician at least 4–6 weeks before departure to allow enough time for vaccinations to take effect and to obtain prescription medications if needed.
Visit a Travel Clinic
See a travel medicine physician at least 4–6 weeks before travel. Bring your immunization records. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from an endemic country.
Get Travel Insurance
Standard US health insurance typically does not cover care abroad. Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage. Private hospitals in South Africa are excellent but expensive.
Documents & Registration
Enroll in the State Department's STEP program at step.state.gov to receive emergency alerts. Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages and 30 days validity beyond your stay.
Pack a Medical Kit
Bring an adequate supply of all prescription medications. If visiting malaria areas, include insect repellent (DEET ≥30%), antimalarials, and a mosquito net. Sunscreen with high SPF is essential year-round.
Water & Food Safety
Tap water in major cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban) is generally safe to drink. However, during water shortages or in rural areas, use bottled water. Practice standard food safety precautions with street food.
Cash & Payments
Credit cards are widely accepted in South Africa. Private hospitals accept international cards but may require a deposit. Carry some South African Rand (ZAR) for smaller vendors and tips. ATMs are widely available but use caution.
Yellow Fever in South Africa
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a potentially fatal viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes and Haemogogus mosquitoes. The disease is called "yellow fever" because of the jaundice — yellowing of the skin and eyes — that occurs in severe cases. Symptoms begin 3–6 days after infection and include sudden fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting.
South Africa is not in the yellow fever endemic zone and the vaccine is not recommended for travel solely within South Africa. However, if your itinerary includes countries in the yellow fever belt (such as Kenya, Tanzania, or other East/Central African nations), you must be vaccinated and carry your Yellow Card when entering South Africa. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel if required.
Malaria in South Africa
If you are visiting Kruger National Park or other northeastern game reserves, antimalarial medication is recommended. Consult your travel medicine physician to choose the right drug based on your health history, trip duration, and season of travel.
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
Start 1–2 days before arrival in malaria zone, take daily, continue for 7 days after leaving. Well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Ideal for short safari trips. Take with food.
Start 1–2 days before arrival, take daily, continue for 28 days after leaving. Cost-effective option. May cause sun sensitivity — important consideration for safari activities.
Weekly dosing — start 2–3 weeks before travel, continue for 4 weeks after leaving. Convenient for longer trips. Can cause neuropsychiatric side effects in some individuals.
Any traveler who develops a fever after visiting Kruger Park or other malaria areas — up to one year after returning — should seek medical care immediately and inform the physician of their travel history. South Africa has excellent diagnostic facilities; malaria tests are widely available at private hospitals.
Even with antimalarials, use bite prevention: wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk, apply DEET-based repellent (≥30%), use permethrin-treated clothing, and sleep under a mosquito net or in air-conditioned rooms. Many safari lodges provide mosquito nets.
Recommended Vaccines for South Africa
The following vaccines are recommended by the CDC and WHO for US travelers to South Africa. Discuss your full list with your travel medicine physician, as recommendations may vary based on your itinerary, activities, and health history.
Required only if arriving from endemic areas. Not needed for direct travel from the US. Must be given at an authorized center at least 10 days before travel.
Transmitted through contaminated food and water. Two-dose vaccine series provides long-term protection. Recommended for all travelers to South Africa.
Spread through contaminated food and water. Injectable vaccine lasts 2 years; oral vaccine lasts 5 years. Recommended especially for adventurous eaters and rural travelers.
Spread through blood and body fluids. Three-dose series. Recommended especially for those who may receive medical care, get tattoos, or have new sexual partners.
Rabies is present in South Africa. Pre-exposure vaccine (3 doses) recommended for wildlife workers, safari visitors in remote areas, and those who may encounter animals.
MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Measles outbreaks occur periodically. Ensure you have received 2 doses of MMR vaccine. Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune.
Ensure your Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) booster is up to date — within the last 10 years — before travel. Important for safari activities with potential for cuts and scrapes.
Influenza Vaccine & COVID-19
South Africa's flu season is May–September (opposite to US). Get vaccinated before travel during these months. Ensure COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are current.
Healthcare System in South Africa
Private Hospitals
Private hospital groups like Netcare, Mediclinic, and Life Healthcare operate world-class facilities in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria. English is widely spoken. Emergency departments are well-equipped. Services are expensive — ensure you have travel insurance.
Public Hospitals
Public healthcare facilities are significantly under-resourced, overcrowded, and face staff shortages. While emergency care will be provided, quality and wait times vary dramatically. Travelers should seek private care whenever possible.
Payment Policy
Private hospitals accept major credit cards and will bill insurers directly in some cases. A deposit may be required for admission. Carry your insurance documents and policy number at all times. Costs can be substantial for inpatient care.
While South Africa has excellent private healthcare, travelers in remote safari areas may need evacuation to major cities for serious conditions. Medical evacuation insurance is still recommended, especially for adventure activities, wildlife safaris in remote reserves, or extreme sports.
Emergency Numbers in South Africa
Public ambulance services can be slow. Consider using private emergency services which offer faster response times: Netcare 911 (082 911), ER24 (084 124), or Life Healthcare (0860 999 911). These services can be billed to travel insurance.
US Embassy Pretoria
877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
Phone: +27 12 431-4000
Emergency: +27 12 431-4000
za.usembassy.gov
US Consulate Cape Town
2 Reddam Avenue, Westlake, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 702-7300
For after-hours emergencies, call the Embassy in Pretoria.
STEP Enrollment
Register your trip at step.state.gov before departure. STEP allows the US Embassy to contact you during emergencies, natural disasters, or civil unrest and helps locate you if something goes wrong.
Nature & Weather Risks
Sun & UV Exposure
South Africa has extremely high UV radiation due to its latitude and altitude. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen frequently, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during midday hours. Skin cancer rates are among the highest globally.
Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia)
A parasitic infection found in freshwater throughout South Africa. Avoid swimming, wading, or bathing in rivers, lakes, and dams. The parasite penetrates skin on contact. Only swim in chlorinated pools or the ocean.
Wildlife Encounters
South Africa is home to the "Big Five" and other dangerous wildlife. Never exit your vehicle in game reserves unless at designated areas. Follow all guide instructions. Baboons can be aggressive — never feed them. Snake bites require immediate medical attention.
Ocean Safety
Strong currents and rip tides are common along South African beaches. Sharks are present in coastal waters — swim at beaches with shark nets and lifeguards. Beaches around Cape Town have cold water; hypothermia is a risk even in summer.
Altitude & Hiking
Table Mountain and the Drakensberg reach significant altitudes. Weather can change rapidly — bring layers and rain gear. Inform someone of your hiking plans. Stick to marked trails and be aware of cliff edges. Mountain rescue services are available but not immediate.
Road Safety
Road accidents are a leading cause of injury in South Africa. Roads are generally good but driving can be hazardous due to aggressive drivers, pedestrians, and livestock on rural roads. Drive on the left. Avoid driving at night in rural areas.
Crime & Safety Risks
Carjacking & Vehicle Crime
Carjackings occur, particularly at traffic lights and stop signs in urban areas. Keep doors locked and windows up. Do not stop for strangers. "Smash-and-grab" thefts target bags visible in vehicles. Keep valuables out of sight or in the trunk.
Robbery & Mugging
Armed robberies and muggings occur in tourist areas, particularly after dark. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in city centers. Don't display expensive jewelry, phones, or cameras. If confronted, do not resist — hand over valuables.
ATM & Credit Card Fraud
ATM skimming and credit card fraud are common. Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during daylight. Cover your PIN. Be wary of people offering to "help" at ATMs. Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks.
Accommodation Safety
Stay in accommodations with good security — perimeter walls, security guards, and secure parking. Use hotel safes for valuables. Don't open doors to unexpected visitors. Short-term rentals should be in secure complexes.
High-Risk Areas
Township areas: Only visit with reputable guided tours. City centers after dark: Johannesburg CBD, parts of Durban and Cape Town. Isolated areas: Remote beaches, hiking trails, and rest stops on highways, especially at night.
Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur periodically and can turn violent or disrupt transportation. Monitor local news, avoid protest areas, and have flexible travel plans. Service delivery protests may block roads in township areas.
Use Uber or reputable taxi services rather than hailing cabs. Don't walk alone at night. Keep a low profile. Carry a copy of your passport (not the original). Have a charged phone with emergency numbers saved. Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, leave the area.
Other Health Risks in South Africa
South Africa has one of the highest HIV rates globally. Practice safe sex and avoid unprotected contact. If you need medical procedures, ensure sterile equipment is used. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is available at private hospitals.
TB prevalence is very high in South Africa, including drug-resistant strains. Risk increases with prolonged exposure in crowded settings. Consider TB testing before and after extended stays. Avoid crowded public transport if possible.
Generally less common in South Africa than other African destinations due to better water quality. Still practice food safety with street food. Tap water is safe in major cities but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.
Rabies is present in wildlife and domestic animals. Avoid contact with stray dogs, monkeys, bats, and wildlife. If bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly and seek immediate medical care. Post-exposure treatment is available at hospitals.
Tick Bite Fever
African tick bite fever is common during safari activities. Symptoms include fever, headache, and a characteristic black eschar at the bite site. Use insect repellent and check for ticks after bush walks. Treatable with doxycycline.
Load Shedding (Power Outages)
South Africa experiences scheduled power cuts ("load shedding"). This can affect traffic lights, security systems, and medical facilities. Download the EskomSePush app to track schedules. Hotels and hospitals have backup generators.
Pre-Departure Checklist for South Africa
- See a travel medicine physician — bring your immunization records
- Get Yellow Fever vaccine if arriving from endemic areas — carry your official Yellow Card
- If visiting Kruger Park or northeastern areas: obtain antimalarial medication
- Update routine vaccines: MMR, Tdap, flu, COVID-19
- Discuss Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Rabies vaccines with your doctor
- Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage
- Enroll in STEP at step.state.gov
- Save emergency numbers: Police 10111 | Ambulance 10177 | Netcare 911 (082 911) | US Embassy +27 12 431-4000
- Pack high SPF sunscreen, insect repellent (if visiting malaria areas), and prescription medications
- Ensure passport has 2+ blank pages and 30+ days validity beyond your stay
- Download Uber app and EskomSePush (load shedding tracker)
- Keep valuables secure and maintain situational awareness
- Avoid walking alone at night and don't resist if confronted by criminals
- Only swim in chlorinated pools or the ocean — avoid freshwater
South Sudan Travel Health Guide for US Travelers
A physician-reviewed health and safety guide for Americans traveling to the Republic of South Sudan
As of March 2026, the U.S. Department of State advises Americans to Do Not Travel to South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Violent crime, such as carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings, is common throughout South Sudan, including in Juba. The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in South Sudan. Always check the latest advisory at travel.state.gov before departing.
Republic of South Sudan
Capital: Juba | Region: East-Central Africa | Language: English, Arabic, Local Languages
Before You Travel to South Sudan
South Sudan is the world's youngest nation, having gained independence in 2011. It is a country of vast savannas, the Sudd wetland, and diverse ethnic cultures. However, for US travelers, South Sudan presents extreme security and health risks. If travel is absolutely essential, plan to see a travel medicine physician at least 6–8 weeks before departure to allow enough time for vaccinations and to obtain prescription medications.
Visit a Travel Clinic
See a board-certified travel medicine physician at least 6–8 weeks before travel. Bring your immunization records. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry for all travelers aged 9 months and older.
Get Travel Insurance
Standard US health insurance does not cover care abroad. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that explicitly includes medical evacuation AND security evacuation coverage. These are essential for travel to South Sudan.
Documents & Registration
Enroll in the State Department's STEP program at step.state.gov to receive emergency alerts. Carry physical and digital copies of your Yellow Fever certificate and all travel documents at all times.
Pack a Medical Kit
Bring an extensive supply of all prescription medications plus extras. Include insect repellent (DEET ≥30%), oral rehydration salts, antidiarrheal medication, broad-spectrum antibiotics (per your doctor), water purification tablets, and a comprehensive first aid kit.
Water & Food Safety
Tap water in South Sudan is not safe to drink. Use only sealed bottled water or properly treated/purified water for drinking, brushing teeth, and making ice. Avoid raw or undercooked food. Peel all fruits yourself.
Cash & Payments
Credit cards are almost never accepted in South Sudan. Bring sufficient US dollars in cash — crisp, new bills are preferred. Hospitals require cash payment upfront. ATMs are extremely limited and unreliable. Plan your cash needs carefully.
Yellow Fever in South Sudan
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a potentially fatal viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes and Haemogogus mosquitoes. The disease is called "yellow fever" because of the jaundice — yellowing of the skin and eyes — that occurs in severe cases. Symptoms begin 3–6 days after infection and include sudden fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting. Approximately 15% of those infected develop severe disease, which can progress to bleeding, shock, organ failure, and death.
Yellow fever is endemic throughout South Sudan. Outbreaks have occurred in recent years. There is no treatment for yellow fever — prevention through the yellow fever vaccine is the only protection. The vaccine must be administered at an authorized Yellow Fever Vaccination Center and recorded on an official International Certificate of Vaccination (the "Yellow Card"). Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Malaria in South Sudan
All US travelers to South Sudan — regardless of the purpose or duration of the trip — must take prescription antimalarial medication. Consult your travel medicine physician to choose the right drug based on your health history, trip duration, and potential side effects.
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
Start 1–2 days before arrival, take daily, continue for 7 days after leaving. Well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Good choice for shorter trips. Take with food.
Start 1–2 days before arrival, take daily, continue for 28 days after leaving. Cost-effective option. May cause sun sensitivity and GI upset. Not suitable during pregnancy.
Weekly dosing — start 2–3 weeks before travel, continue for 4 weeks after leaving. Convenient schedule for longer deployments. Can cause neuropsychiatric side effects in some individuals.
Any traveler who develops a fever of 38°C (100°F) or higher while in South Sudan or within one year of returning should seek emergency medical care immediately and inform the physician of their travel history. Malaria can be fatal within 24–48 hours if not treated promptly. Reliable malaria diagnostic testing is extremely limited in South Sudan — evacuation may be necessary.
In South Sudan's high-transmission environment, bite prevention is as important as medication. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, apply DEET-based insect repellent (≥30%) frequently, sleep under a permethrin-treated mosquito net, and use air conditioning when available. Consider permethrin-treated clothing for extended stays.
Recommended Vaccines for South Sudan
The following vaccines are recommended or required by the CDC and WHO for US travelers to South Sudan. Discuss your full list with your travel medicine physician, as recommendations may vary based on your itinerary, activities, and health history.
Mandatory for entry. Live vaccine — single dose, lifelong protection. Must be given at an authorized center at least 10 days before travel. You will be denied entry without the Yellow Card.
Spread through contaminated food and water. Injectable vaccine lasts 2 years; oral vaccine lasts 5 years. Strongly recommended for all travelers to South Sudan.
Transmitted through contaminated food and water. Two-dose vaccine series provides long-term protection. Strongly recommended for all travelers.
Spread through blood and body fluids. Three-dose series. Strongly recommended given limited healthcare and potential need for emergency medical procedures.
South Sudan is high-risk for rabies. Pre-exposure vaccine series (3 doses) is strongly recommended for all travelers as post-exposure treatment is virtually unavailable in country.
South Sudan has experienced polio outbreaks in recent years. A one-time adult booster is strongly recommended for all travelers.
South Sudan is in the "meningitis belt" of sub-Saharan Africa. Outbreaks occur during the dry season (December–June). MenACWY vaccine is recommended for all travelers.
MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Measles outbreaks occur frequently in South Sudan. Ensure you have received 2 doses of MMR vaccine.
Ensure your Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) booster is up to date — within the last 10 years — before travel.
Healthcare System in South Sudan
In Juba (Capital)
A few private clinics exist in Juba but they lack consistent electricity, diagnostic equipment, medications, and specialized staff. Quality is unpredictable. Even routine medical issues often require evacuation. UN and NGO personnel typically use dedicated medical facilities not accessible to ordinary travelers.
Outside Juba
Healthcare infrastructure is virtually nonexistent outside major towns. Basic clinics may lack even fundamental medications and equipment. Roads are often impassable. Access may be restricted by active conflict. Medical evacuation is the only option for any serious condition.
Payment Policy
All medical facilities require cash payment upfront before providing any treatment. Credit cards are not accepted. Bring sufficient US dollars to cover potential medical emergencies. Medical costs for evacuation can exceed $100,000 USD.
The US government strongly recommends that all US travelers to South Sudan purchase comprehensive insurance that includes medical evacuation and security evacuation coverage. Evacuation is typically required for any serious medical condition. Evacuation destinations include Nairobi (Kenya), Kampala (Uganda), or further to Europe. Costs can reach $100,000–$300,000 USD. Services like International SOS, Global Rescue, or AMREF Flying Doctors are essential.
Emergency Numbers in South Sudan
There is no reliable public emergency response system in South Sudan. Police response is extremely limited and inconsistent. There is no functioning public ambulance service. In a medical emergency, travelers must rely on their organization's emergency plan, private medical evacuation services, or self-transport to the nearest clinic. Security evacuations may be necessary during conflict.
US Embassy Juba
Kololo Road, Juba, South Sudan
Phone: +211 912 105 188
Emergency: +211 912 105 188
ss.usembassy.gov
US State Dept 24/7 Hotline
For US citizens in distress abroad:
From US/Canada: +1-888-407-4747
From abroad: +1-202-501-4444
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
STEP Enrollment
Register your trip at step.state.gov before departure. STEP enrollment is especially critical for South Sudan to receive security alerts and for the Embassy to locate you during emergencies.
Nature & Weather Risks
Extreme Heat
South Sudan has a hot tropical climate with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the dry season. Heat stroke and dehydration are serious risks. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight loose-fitting clothing, limit outdoor exertion, and carry ample water at all times.
Rainy Season Flooding
The rainy season (April–November) brings severe flooding that makes roads impassable and can isolate entire regions for weeks. Flooding also increases disease transmission including cholera and malaria. Travel planning must account for seasonal access limitations.
Animal & Wildlife Risks
Do not approach any animals. Dogs pose significant rabies risk — post-exposure treatment is unavailable. Hippos and crocodiles are present in waterways. Snakes and scorpions are common. Tsetse flies transmit sleeping sickness in rural areas.
Unexploded Ordnance
Landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain throughout South Sudan from decades of conflict. Many areas are unmarked. Never venture off established roads. Do not pick up unfamiliar objects. Follow guidance from security personnel at all times.
Road Conditions
Roads in South Sudan are extremely poor — most are unpaved and become impassable during rains. Checkpoints (official and unofficial) are common. Ambushes occur on main roads. Overland travel carries extreme risk. Air travel is preferred when possible but limited.
Sun & UV Exposure
UV radiation is intense in equatorial Africa. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear a hat and protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours. Sun exposure is intensified if taking doxycycline for malaria prevention.
Conflict, Crime & Safety Risks
Armed Conflict
Despite peace agreements, localized armed conflict and intercommunal violence continue throughout South Sudan. Clashes between armed groups, ethnic violence, and cattle raids are common. Violence can erupt suddenly. Areas outside Juba are particularly dangerous.
Kidnapping
Kidnapping for ransom is a significant threat. Foreigners, aid workers, and journalists are high-value targets. The U.S. government does not make concessions to kidnappers. Maintain low profile and travel only with professional security arrangements.
Violent Crime
Armed robbery, carjacking, assault, and shootings are common throughout South Sudan, including in Juba. Criminals often operate with impunity. Never travel at night. Never physically resist robbery attempts.
Checkpoints & Roadblocks
Official and unofficial checkpoints are common on all roads. Armed soldiers, police, or militia may demand bribes or search vehicles. Some checkpoints are operated by hostile armed groups. Carry proper documentation and remain calm during interactions.
Photography Restrictions
Photography of military installations, government buildings, bridges, airports, and security personnel is strictly prohibited and can result in arrest, detention, or violence. Always ask permission before photographing people.
High-Risk Regions
All regions of South Sudan carry extreme risk. Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, and Equatoria states have experienced significant violence. Even Juba has seen armed conflict. Border areas with Sudan, CAR, DRC, Ethiopia, and Uganda are particularly dangerous.
Detention conditions in South Sudan are extremely poor with reports of torture and abuse. If detained, immediately request that officials notify the US Embassy. Do not sign any documents without legal representation. Contact the US Embassy at +211 912 105 188 or the 24/7 State Department hotline at +1-888-407-4747.
Other Health Risks in South Sudan
Cholera outbreaks are frequent in South Sudan, especially during flooding and in displacement camps. Transmitted through contaminated water. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea and rapid dehydration. Oral cholera vaccine is recommended. Drink only treated water.
Extremely common due to poor sanitation and water quality. Use only bottled or purified water, avoid raw foods and street food, wash hands frequently. Carry oral rehydration salts and standby antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
South Sudan is in the African "meningitis belt." Outbreaks occur during dry season (December–June). Bacterial meningitis can be fatal within hours. MenACWY vaccine is strongly recommended for all travelers.
Transmitted by tsetse flies in rural savanna areas. Causes fever, headache, and eventually neurological symptoms. Fatal if untreated. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and avoid tsetse fly habitats (wooded areas near water).
Ebola & Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
Ebola outbreaks have occurred in neighboring DRC and Uganda. South Sudan is at risk of importation. Avoid contact with sick individuals or bodily fluids. Practice strict hygiene. Monitor WHO and CDC alerts for current outbreak status.
HIV prevalence is significant. Practice safe sex and avoid unprotected contact. Blood supply safety cannot be assured — if transfusion is needed, evacuation is preferable. Ensure sterile equipment for any medical procedures.
Pre-Departure Checklist for South Sudan
- Reconsider travel — only travel if absolutely essential with professional security support
- See a travel medicine physician — bring your immunization records
- Get Yellow Fever vaccine — mandatory for entry. Carry your official Yellow Card
- Obtain prescription antimalarial medication (Malarone, doxycycline, or mefloquine)
- Get rabies pre-exposure vaccine — post-exposure treatment unavailable
- Get meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) — in meningitis belt
- Update vaccines: MMR, Tdap, polio booster, flu, COVID-19
- Discuss Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Cholera vaccines
- Purchase comprehensive insurance with medical AND security evacuation coverage
- Enroll in STEP at step.state.gov — critical for South Sudan
- Save emergency numbers: US Embassy +211 912 105 188 | State Dept +1-888-407-4747
- Pack comprehensive medical kit including antimalarials, antibiotics, ORS, and water purification
- Bring sufficient US dollars in cash — credit cards not accepted
- Arrange professional security support and movement protocols
- Do not travel at night or venture off established roads
- Do not photograph military, government, or security subjects
- Drink only bottled or purified water — assume all tap water is unsafe
