Vaccinations & Health Rules for Mozambique for Swedish Travellers 2026

Quick Answer: Vaccines Required vs. Recommended for Swedish Travellers

No vaccines are required to enter Mozambique directly from Sweden, but yellow fever vaccination is mandatory only if your itinerary includes stops in yellow fever–endemic countries for more than 12 hours or arrival from those countries. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines are strongly recommended by the CDC for all travellers. Malaria prophylaxis is essential: all travellers should take antimalarial medication year-round, as malaria transmission occurs throughout Mozambique. Schedule a travel medicine appointment 4–6 weeks before departure to discuss your specific itinerary and health risks.

Vaccine	Entry Requirement (Sweden→MZ)	CDC/WHO Recommendation	Timing Before Departure
Yellow Fever	Only if transiting endemic countries >12 hours	Consider for all travellers	10 days minimum before travel
Hepatitis A	Not required	Strongly recommended	2 doses, 6 months apart; 1st dose ≥2 weeks before travel
Typhoid	Not required	Recommended (especially rural areas)	2–3 weeks before departure
Malaria Prophylaxis	Not required	Strongly recommended (medication, not vaccine)	Begin 1–2 days before arrival; continue during & after stay
Routine (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Flu, COVID-19)	Not required	Ensure up-to-date	Verify status ≥4 weeks before travel

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

Yellow Fever Certificate: When It's Required for Swedish Travellers

Direct Travel from Sweden: Not Required

Sweden is not a yellow fever–endemic country, so Swedish citizens do not need a yellow fever certificate to enter Mozambique if travelling directly from Sweden. Mozambique requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only for travellers aged 1 year or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Transit Through Yellow Fever–Endemic Countries: Certificate Required

If your itinerary includes a stop or layover of more than 12 hours in a yellow fever–endemic country, you must obtain a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP, commonly called the "Yellow Card") before arriving in Mozambique. This applies even if you are not staying overnight in the transit country. Yellow fever–endemic countries include Angola, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, and Venezuela.

Certificate Validity and Documentation

The yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection; the ICVP is valid for life starting 10 days after vaccination. You must carry your original Yellow Card with you, as immigration officials may request to see it upon arrival. If you cannot present a valid certificate on entry, you may be vaccinated at your expense (approximately USD 50). According to WHO International Health Regulations, certificates cannot be rejected on the grounds that more than ten years have passed since vaccination, and boosters or revaccination cannot be required.

Recommended Vaccinations for Mozambique

Beyond the mandatory yellow fever vaccine (if applicable), several vaccinations are strongly recommended by the CDC and WHO to protect against diseases prevalent in Mozambique. These recommendations are general and should be discussed with a healthcare professional who can assess your individual risk based on your itinerary, duration of stay, and medical history.

Hepatitis A: Strongly Recommended for All Travellers

Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food and water and is common in areas with poor sanitation. The CDC strongly recommends hepatitis A vaccination for all travellers to Mozambique. The vaccine is given in two doses: the first dose should be administered at least 2 weeks before travel, and the second dose 6 months later. If you have a short travel window, discuss accelerated schedules with your travel clinic.

Typhoid: Recommended, Especially for Rural Areas

Typhoid fever is transmitted through contaminated food and water. The CDC recommends typhoid vaccination for most travellers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas. Vaccination should be completed 2–3 weeks before departure. Two typhoid vaccines are available: an inactivated injection (1 dose) and an oral live attenuated vaccine (4 doses taken on alternate days).

Cholera: Consider for High-Risk Itineraries

Active cholera transmission is widespread in Mozambique, although cholera is rare in travellers. The CDC states that vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are travelling to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands thoroughly can significantly reduce your risk. Discuss your specific destination with a travel health provider to determine if cholera vaccination is appropriate for your itinerary.

Routine Vaccinations: Ensure You Are Up-to-Date

Ensure you are up-to-date with all routine vaccinations before every trip. These include:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella): Two doses required for lifelong protection.
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis): A booster is recommended every 10 years; confirm your status.
• Polio: Ensure you have completed the primary series and any recommended boosters.
• COVID-19: All eligible travellers should be up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
• Influenza (flu): Annual vaccination is recommended, particularly if travelling during flu season.

Review your immunisation records at least 4 weeks before departure and consult your healthcare provider if any boosters are needed.

Malaria: Risk, Prophylaxis, and Prevention

Malaria Risk in Mozambique

Malaria transmission occurs year-round throughout Mozambique, including in all safari and beach destinations. Currently, malaria is the most frequently imported infectious disease by travellers to non-endemic countries, with an estimated 10,000+ international travellers annually becoming ill with malaria after returning home from endemic areas. The Plasmodium parasites in Mozambique cannot be treated with chloroquine; a travel health provider can help you choose the right prevention medicine before your trip.

Antimalarial Medication: Essential for All Travellers

Antimalarials are strongly recommended for all travellers to Mozambique. Begin antimalarial medication 1–2 days before arrival, continue it daily throughout your stay, and continue for 4 weeks after departure (depending on the medication). Work with a travel medicine specialist to select the appropriate antimalarial based on drug resistance patterns, your medical history, and any contraindications. Common options include atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, and mefloquine; your provider will recommend the best choice for your circumstances.

Mosquito Bite Prevention: 24/7 Protection

Optimal protection against mosquito bites is essential, as antimalarial medication is not 100% effective. Protect yourself 24/7 as follows:

• At dusk and at night (malaria risk): Wear long sleeves and long trousers, or use insecticide-treated bed nets.
• During the day (dengue and other arboviruses): Apply insect repellent containing DEET (20–30%), Citriodiol, or Picaridin to all exposed skin and clothing.
• Accommodation: Stay in screened or air-conditioned rooms; use mosquito nets if sleeping outdoors.
• Clothing: Consider permethrin-treated clothing for added protection.

Even if you are taking antimalarial medication, malaria should always be ruled out by a blood test if you develop a fever, even during or after your trip.

Health Documents and Travel Insurance

Vaccination Records and the ICVP

Carry original vaccination documents, especially the ICVP (Yellow Card) if you have been vaccinated for yellow fever. Keep copies of your immunisation records in a separate location. Some travel clinics and your healthcare provider can issue official vaccination records that meet international standards. Digital vaccination records (e.g., from your national health authority) may be accepted but confirm this with Mozambique's immigration authorities or your airline before travel.

Comprehensive Travel Health Insurance

Obtain comprehensive travel health insurance that covers emergency medical care, evacuation, and repatriation before you travel. Mozambique has limited medical facilities outside major centres; medical evacuation to South Africa or another country with advanced care may be necessary in a serious emergency. Ensure your policy covers pre-existing conditions, adventure activities (if relevant to your safari), and the full cost of evacuation.

Medical Information Card

Carry a card with your blood type, allergies, current medications, and emergency contact information. If you have a chronic condition (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), carry a letter from your healthcare provider explaining your condition and any medications you are taking.

Medications and What to Pack

Essential Medications and Prescriptions

Obtain all prescriptions filled in Sweden before departure, as medications may not be available or may be counterfeit in Mozambique. Carry medications in their original labelled containers with a copy of the prescription or a letter from your healthcare provider. Pack all medications in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or damage.

Medical Kit for Travellers

Pack an advanced first aid kit, including sterile needles and syringes, as shortages of sterile equipment are common in Mozambique. Your medical kit should include:

• Sterile needles, syringes, and sutures
• Adhesive plasters and gauze
• Antibiotic ointment and antiseptic wipes
• Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Antihistamines (for allergic reactions)
• Antidiarrhoeal medication (e.g., loperamide)
• Prescription kit for traveller's diarrhoea (e.g., azithromycin or ciprofloxacin, obtained from your doctor)
• Antimalarial medication (if prescribed)
• Anti-nausea medication
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent (DEET 20–30% or Citriodiol)
• Mosquito net (backup)
• Thermometer
• Any personal medications or supplements

Traveller's Diarrhoea Kit

A prescription kit containing treatments for traveller's diarrhoea is essential, as contaminated food and water are common causes of illness. Ask your healthcare provider for a prescription containing an antibiotic (e.g., azithromycin or ciprofloxacin) and an antidiarrhoeal agent. Carry this kit with you at all times and use it if you develop symptoms.

Health Facilities and Medical Care in Mozambique

Medical Facilities: Limited Outside Major Centres

Comprehensive medical facilities are available only in the major population centres (Maputo, Beira, Inhambane) and in specific private clinics. Sterile surgical products (syringes, needles, sutures) are not always available in public facilities. If you require urgent medical care, contact your embassy, your travel insurance provider, or IAMAT (International Association of Medical Assistance for Travellers) for a referral to a quality facility.

Emergency Evacuation

In the event of a serious medical emergency, you may need to be evacuated to South Africa or another country with advanced medical facilities. Ensure your travel insurance covers the full cost of evacuation and repatriation to Sweden. Discuss evacuation procedures with your insurance provider before travel.

Pharmacy and Over-the-Counter Medications

Pharmacies in major cities stock some over-the-counter medications, but availability and quality are inconsistent. Always carry your essential medications from Sweden rather than relying on local pharmacies. If you need to purchase medication locally, ask your hotel, safari lodge, or healthcare provider for a recommendation.

Pre-Travel Health Timeline for Swedish Travellers

6–8 Weeks Before Departure

• Schedule a travel medicine appointment with a travel clinic or your healthcare provider.
• Review your itinerary and discuss health risks specific to your destinations.
• Confirm your routine vaccination status (MMR, Tdap, polio, COVID-19, influenza).
• Discuss yellow fever vaccination if your itinerary includes transit through endemic countries.

4–6 Weeks Before Departure

• Begin the hepatitis A vaccination series (first dose); schedule the second dose for 6 months later or discuss accelerated schedules if needed.
• Receive typhoid vaccination (either inactivated injection or oral vaccine).
• Discuss cholera vaccination if travelling to high-risk areas.
• Receive yellow fever vaccination if required, ensuring vaccination occurs at least 10 days before travel.
• Obtain prescriptions for antimalarial medication and traveller's diarrhoea kit.
• Arrange comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.

2–3 Weeks Before Departure

• Confirm receipt of yellow fever ICVP (if vaccination was administered).
• Obtain all other prescriptions filled and pack medications.
• Assemble your medical kit.
• Review your travel insurance policy and print copies of key documents.

1 Week Before Departure

• Begin malaria prophylaxis if required (1–2 days before arrival).
• Verify all documents: passport (≥6 months validity), visa or eTA for Mozambique, vaccination records, travel insurance policy, and medical prescriptions.
• Reconfirm health requirements with your airline and Mozambique's Ministry of Health if you have any concerns.
• Check weather and disease outbreaks for your specific destination via the CDC or WHO websites.

Additional Health Considerations

Water and Food Safety

Avoid drinking untreated tap water; drink bottled or boiled water only. Avoid ice unless it is made from bottled or boiled water. Eat only thoroughly cooked food and avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them yourself. Avoid street food and unpasteurised dairy products. Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.

Sun Protection

Mozambique is in the tropics and receives intense UV radiation. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30+ to all exposed skin, reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Altitude and Heat Acclimatisation

Most safari and beach destinations in Mozambique are at low altitude, so altitude sickness is not a concern. However, the heat and humidity can be intense, especially in summer (November–March). Drink plenty of fluids, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, and allow time to acclimatise.

Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) Risk

Schistosomiasis is present in freshwater lakes and rivers in Mozambique. Avoid swimming, wading, or bathing in untreated freshwater sources. Swimming in ocean water and properly treated swimming pools is safe. If you do come into contact with untreated freshwater, dry off immediately and apply insect repellent to prevent cercariae from penetrating the skin.

Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks are present in Mozambique and can transmit diseases such as tick-borne fever and other arboviruses. Use insect repellent containing DEET, Citriodiol, or Picaridin on exposed skin and clothing. Wear long sleeves and long trousers in areas with tall grass. Check your body daily for ticks and remove them promptly using tweezers; do not crush the tick.

Before You Book Your Safari

When planning your Mozambique safari or beach holiday, confirm health and vaccination requirements with your chosen safari lodge or hotel, as some may have specific policies or recommendations. You can compare safari lodges and packages on SafariFind to find operators who prioritise guest health and safety. If you are interested in safari hunting in Mozambique, discuss health risks and preventive measures with your outfitter, as hunting often involves more remote areas and higher exposure to insects and wildlife.

Key Takeaways

• Swedish citizens do not require a yellow fever certificate for direct travel from Sweden to Mozambique.
• Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if your itinerary includes transit through or arrival from yellow fever–endemic countries for more than 12 hours.
• Hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis are strongly recommended by the CDC for all travellers.
• Malaria transmission occurs year-round throughout Mozambique; antimalarial medication and mosquito bite prevention are essential.
• Schedule a travel medicine appointment 4–6 weeks before departure to discuss your specific itinerary and health risks.
• Carry comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
• Pack a medical kit including sterile needles, syringes, and a traveller's diarrhoea kit.
• Avoid untreated tap water, raw vegetables, and raw or undercooked meat.
• Protect yourself from mosquitoes 24/7 using insect repellent, long clothing, and bed nets.
• Always confirm current requirements with official sources before travelling, as regulations change.

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Swedish citizens need a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Mozambique?

No, Swedish citizens do not require a yellow fever vaccination certificate if travelling directly from Sweden to Mozambique, as Sweden is not a yellow fever–endemic country. However, if your itinerary includes a stop or layover of more than 12 hours in a yellow fever–endemic country (e.g., Angola, Kenya, Tanzania, Brazil), you must obtain a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before arriving in Mozambique.

What vaccinations are recommended for Swedish travellers to Mozambique?

The CDC strongly recommends hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis (medication, not a vaccine) for all travellers to Mozambique. You should also ensure you are up-to-date with routine vaccinations including MMR, Tdap, polio, COVID-19, and influenza. Cholera vaccination may be considered if travelling to areas of active cholera transmission. Schedule a travel medicine appointment 4–6 weeks before departure to discuss your specific itinerary and personalised recommendations.

Is malaria a risk in Mozambique, and do I need antimalarial medication?

Yes, malaria transmission occurs year-round throughout Mozambique, including all safari and beach destinations. Antimalarial medication is strongly recommended for all travellers; begin medication 1–2 days before arrival, continue it daily throughout your stay, and continue for 4 weeks after departure. Combine medication with mosquito bite prevention (insect repellent, long clothing, bed nets) for optimal protection, as antimalarial medication is not 100% effective.

How long before travel should I schedule a travel medicine appointment?

Schedule a travel medicine appointment 4–6 weeks before departure. This allows sufficient time to receive vaccinations (some require multiple doses or need to be given weeks apart), obtain prescriptions for antimalarial medication and traveller's diarrhoea kits, and discuss your specific itinerary and health risks with a healthcare professional.

What should I do if I cannot present a yellow fever vaccination certificate at Mozambique immigration?

If you cannot present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Mozambique, you may be vaccinated at your own expense (approximately USD 50). To avoid this situation, obtain your yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before travel if your itinerary requires it, and carry your original ICVP with you.

Is comprehensive travel insurance necessary for a trip to Mozambique?

Yes, comprehensive travel health insurance is essential for travel to Mozambique. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical care, evacuation, and repatriation, as medical facilities are limited outside major centres and serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to South Africa or another country with advanced care. Confirm that your policy covers any pre-existing conditions and adventure activities relevant to your trip.

What should I pack in my medical kit for Mozambique?

Pack an advanced medical kit including sterile needles and syringes (shortages are common), antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, antihistamines, antidiarrhoeal medication, antimalarial medication, prescription traveller's diarrhoea kit, sunscreen (SPF 30+), insect repellent (DEET 20–30%), mosquito net, thermometer, and any personal medications. Carry all medications in their original labelled containers with copies of prescriptions.

How can I protect myself from malaria mosquitoes in Mozambique?

Protect yourself from mosquito bites 24/7 by wearing long sleeves and long trousers, especially at dusk and at night when malaria-carrying mosquitoes are most active. Use insect repellent containing DEET (20–30%), Citriodiol, or Picaridin on all exposed skin and clothing. Sleep under an insecticide-treated bed net or in a screened or air-conditioned room. Even if taking antimalarial medication, mosquito bite prevention is essential, as medication is not 100% effective.

What is the validity of a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and do I need boosters?

The yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection; the ICVP is valid for life starting 10 days after vaccination. According to WHO International Health Regulations, certificates cannot be rejected on the grounds that more than ten years have passed since vaccination, and boosters or revaccination cannot be required. Carry your original Yellow Card with you as proof.

Are there any diseases I should be aware of beyond yellow fever and malaria in Mozambique?

Yes. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and cholera are present in Mozambique. Active cholera transmission is widespread, though cholera is rare in travellers. Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) is present in freshwater; avoid swimming in untreated freshwater sources. Dengue and other arboviruses are transmitted by daytime mosquitoes. Tick-borne diseases are also present. Practise safe food and water hygiene, use insect repellent 24/7, and seek medical advice if you develop fever or other symptoms.

Can I get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines at the same time?

Yes, hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines can be administered at the same visit but in different injection sites. However, hepatitis A requires two doses spaced 6 months apart for complete protection, so plan accordingly. Discuss your travel timeline with your healthcare provider to determine the best vaccination schedule.

What is an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), and where can I get one?

An ICVP, commonly called the "Yellow Card," is an official document issued by a healthcare provider or travel clinic that certifies you have been vaccinated against yellow fever. It is required for entry into Mozambique if you are arriving from or have transited through a yellow fever–endemic country. Your travel clinic, healthcare provider, or designated yellow fever vaccination centre can issue the ICVP when you receive your vaccination.