Live Vaccinations Required for Travel to Kenya
Yellow fever vaccination is the only live vaccine required for travel to Kenya, and it must be documented on an International Certificate of Vaccination. 1
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements
Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can cause severe illness and death. The vaccine is highly effective and provides long-lasting immunity.
Requirements and Documentation:
- A single subcutaneous injection of 0.5 mL of reconstituted yellow fever vaccine is required 2
- Vaccination must be received at least 10 days before travel to be valid 2
- The International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be completed, signed, and validated with the official stamp of the vaccination center 2
- Immunity persists for at least 10 years, with evidence suggesting protection for 30-35 years or possibly lifelong 2
Administration Guidelines:
- Must be administered at an approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Center 2
- Centers can be identified by contacting state and local health departments 2
- Vaccination should be scheduled 4-6 weeks before travel to ensure adequate time for immune response 1
Other Live Vaccines to Consider (Not Required)
While not required for entry to Kenya, other live vaccines may be recommended depending on your vaccination history:
MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella): Recommended for international travelers to ensure protection, particularly against measles 1
- Not recommended for severely immunosuppressed persons 2
Oral Typhoid Vaccine: The injectable (inactivated) form is preferred over the oral (live) version for most travelers 1
Important Considerations and Contraindications
Yellow Fever Vaccine Contraindications:
- Should not be given to severely immunocompromised persons 2
- Not recommended for infants under 9 months of age 2
- Caution in pregnant women (risk-benefit assessment needed) 2
- Contraindicated in persons with egg allergies 2
For Immunocompromised Travelers:
- HIV-infected individuals without severe immunosuppression (CD4 count ≥200 cells/mm³ in adults or ≥15% in children) may receive yellow fever vaccine if travel to endemic areas cannot be avoided 2
- Consultation with an infectious disease specialist is recommended 1
- Waiver letters may be available for those with medical contraindications 2
Additional Travel Health Recommendations
While not live vaccines, these additional preventive measures are important:
- Hepatitis A vaccination: Provides >95% protection after a single dose 1
- Tetanus-diphtheria vaccination: Booster recommended every 10 years 1
- Malaria prophylaxis: Essential for travel to Kenya 1
- Insect repellent and protective measures: To prevent mosquito-borne diseases 1
- Antidiarrheal medication and antibiotics: For self-treatment of traveler's diarrhea 1
Timing Considerations
If receiving multiple vaccines, proper timing is important:
- Yellow fever and cholera vaccines should be administered at least 3 weeks apart or simultaneously 2
- Multiple indicated vaccines can generally be administered simultaneously at different injection sites 1
Remember that vaccination requirements may change, so consult with a travel medicine specialist or check the CDC's travel website for the most current information before your trip.