Congo Travel Health Guide
High risk
Congo carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Congo year-round. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Overall risk
High risk
Malaria
Present
Best time to visit
Year-round
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines
Make sure all routine vaccines are up to date before traveling, including chickenpox, tetanus, flu, MMR, polio, and shingles vaccines.
COVID-19
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all unvaccinated travelers 1 year and older. Infants 6-11 months should also get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated travelers under 60. Those 60 and older may also consider vaccination.
Measles
Measles vaccination with MMR is recommended for all international travelers, including early vaccination for infants 6-11 months old.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccine is recommended for most travelers, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with friends and relatives.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever vaccine is both recommended for protection and required for entry into Congo for all travelers 9 months and older.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya vaccine is generally not recommended. Focus on preventing mosquito bites instead.
Cholera
Cholera vaccination may be considered if traveling to areas with active transmission (Brazzaville, Congo-Oubangui, Nkeni-Alima). Focus on safe food and water practices.
Monkeypox
Monkeypox vaccine is recommended for travelers who may engage in high-risk sexual activities. Get vaccinated at least 6 weeks before travel if possible.
Rabies
Rabid dogs are commonly found in Congo. Consider rabies vaccination before travel, especially if you'll be around animals or in areas where medical care may be limited.
Disease risks
Malaria risk
Malaria is present in this destination. Prophylaxis medication is recommended.
Malaria risk exists throughout Congo year-round. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed by your doctor, starting before travel and continuing during and after your trip.
Emergency numbers
Police
117
Medical / Ambulance
118
Fire
118
U.S. Embassy
+254-20-363-6000
Congo travel health FAQ
Do I need vaccines to travel to Congo?▼
For travel to Congo, Routine vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Typhoid and Yellow Fever are recommended; Chikungunya, Cholera, 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?▼
Yes — malaria is present in Congo. 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?▼
From a travel-health standpoint, Congo is currently rated high risk. Congo carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Congo year-round. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
What are the emergency phone numbers in Congo?▼
Key emergency numbers in Congo are Police 117, Medical / Ambulance 118, Fire 118 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
Angola carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Angola. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Cameroon carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Cameroon year-round. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Central African Republic carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists throughout Central African Republic. 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.