High riskAfrica · Middle AfricaCongo (DRC) Travel Health Guide
High risk
Congo (DRC) carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout DRC year-round. Key travel vaccines: Yellow Fever, COVID-19, Hepatitis A.
Overall risk
High risk
Malaria
Present
Best time to visit
Year-round
Recommended vaccines
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever vaccination both recommended and required for entry for all travelers 9 months and older.
Routine Vaccines
Make sure all routine vaccinations are current before travel, including chickenpox, tetanus, flu, MMR, polio, and shingles vaccines.
COVID-19
Ensure COVID-19 vaccination is up to date before travel.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A vaccination recommended for all travelers 1 year and older. Special timing considerations for infants and high-risk travelers.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B vaccination recommended for travelers under 60, and may be considered for those 60 and older.
Measles
Measles cases are rising worldwide. Ensure full MMR vaccination at least 2 weeks before travel, including early dose for infants 6-11 months.
Polio
Poliovirus present in DRC. Adults may need booster dose, unvaccinated travelers need complete series before travel.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccination recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting rural areas or staying with friends/relatives.
Chikungunya
Vaccination not generally recommended - focus on preventing mosquito bites instead.
Cholera
Cholera is widespread in DRC. Vaccination may be considered for some travelers, but focus on safe food and water practices.
Meningococcal Disease
Vaccination recommended if traveling to meningitis belt areas of DRC during dry season (December-June).
Monkeypox
Monkeypox vaccination recommended for travelers anticipating high-risk sexual activities. Start vaccination at least 6 weeks before travel.
Rabies
Rabid dogs are common in DRC. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if at higher risk or if access to post-exposure treatment may be limited.
Disease risks
Malaria risk
Malaria is present in this destination. Prophylaxis medication is recommended.
Malaria risk exists throughout DRC year-round. Prescription antimalarial medication is recommended for all travelers. P. falciparum is the primary species and is resistant to chloroquine.
Emergency numbers
Police
112
Medical / Ambulance
112
Fire
112
U.S. Embassy
+254-20-363-6000
Congo (DRC) travel health FAQ
Do I need vaccines to travel to Congo (DRC)?▼
For travel to Congo (DRC), Yellow Fever is required for entry; Routine Vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Polio and Typhoid are recommended; Chikungunya, Cholera, Meningococcal Disease, Monkeypox and Rabies may be advised depending on your itinerary. Make sure your routine vaccinations (such as MMR, Tdap, polio and seasonal flu) are up to date, and see a travel-health provider about 4–6 weeks before you leave.
Is there malaria in Congo (DRC)?▼
Yes — malaria is present in Congo (DRC). Antimalarial prophylaxis is recommended for most travelers, alongside insect-bite precautions such as repellent and treated bed nets.
Is it safe to travel to Congo (DRC)?▼
From a travel-health standpoint, Congo (DRC) is currently rated high risk. Congo (DRC) carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout DRC year-round. Key travel vaccines: Yellow Fever, COVID-19, Hepatitis A.
What are the emergency phone numbers in Congo (DRC)?▼
Key emergency numbers in Congo (DRC) are Police 112, Medical / Ambulance 112, Fire 112 and U.S. Embassy +254-20-363-6000. Save them before you travel and confirm the current numbers with your accommodation on arrival.
More country guides
AngolaHigh riskAngola carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Angola. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
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Build my Trip KitSources: CDC Travelers' Health · WHO International Travel and Health. Last updated 2026-07-31. Health conditions and entry rules change — verify with the CDC, WHO and your destination’s authorities before travel. This page is informational and not a substitute for advice from a travel-medicine provider.