S. Sudan
East Africa · Africa · Physician brief
Armed conflict and instability — travel strongly discouraged
South Sudan is affected by ongoing armed conflict, intercommunal violence and political instability. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) advises against travel. Medical infrastructure is minimal and evacuation may be difficult. Anyone who must travel should arrange comprehensive security and medical-evacuation support in advance.
Swiss FDFA / EDA travel advice ↗ · Updated 2026
Yellow fever — vaccine recommended AND certificate required
Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for all travelers ≥9 months, and South Sudan requires proof of YF vaccination for entry for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination. Vaccination must be given at an approved center at least 10 days before arrival.
CDC / WHO / South Sudan entry requirements ↗ · Updated 2026
Cholera — widespread active transmission
Active cholera transmission is widespread in South Sudan. Maintain strict food and water hygiene; the oral cholera vaccine may be considered for aid/health workers and those in higher-risk settings.
CDC / WHO ↗ · Updated 2026
Meningitis belt — seasonal meningococcal risk
South Sudan lies in the African meningitis belt. Meningococcal vaccination is recommended for travelers visiting affected areas during the dry season (roughly December–June) and for close contact with the local population.
CDC / WHO ↗ · Updated 2026
Vaccines
Disease-specific guidance
Malaria
HighMalaria risk is high year-round in all areas of South Sudan. P. falciparum predominates and is chloroquine-resistant. Chemoprophylaxis (atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine or tafenoquine) is recommended for all travelers, together with aggressive bite prevention.
- Risk area
- All areas, high risk year-round
- Species
- P. falciparum predominant
- Resistance
- Chloroquine-resistant
- Prevention
- Chemoprophylaxis for all travelers + bite protection
Yellow fever
HighYellow fever vaccine is recommended for all travelers ≥9 months, and a vaccination certificate is required for entry for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old (see country alert). Plan vaccination at least 10 days before arrival.
- CDC
- Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months
- Entry rule
- Certificate required for all travelers
- Timing
- At least 10 days before arrival
Dengue
LowDengue is transmitted by daytime-biting Aedes mosquitoes and occurs in South Sudan. Daytime mosquito-bite prevention is the main protection alongside malaria measures.
- Distribution
- Present; lowland and urban areas
- Mosquito
- Aedes — bites during daytime
General prevention
Food & water
Strict food and water precautions are essential — active cholera transmission is widespread. Drink only bottled or treated water, avoid ice and unpeeled produce, and eat thoroughly cooked food. Healthcare access is severely limited.
Mosquito protection
Aggressive mosquito-bite prevention (DEET or picaridin repellent, long sleeves, treated bed nets) is essential — malaria risk is high year-round throughout the country. Dengue and other insect-borne diseases (incl. African sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis) also occur. Ongoing conflict makes much of the country unsafe.
Sources
Based on CDC Travelers’ Health, CDC Yellow Book, and the Swiss Federal Vaccination Schedule (BAG). Always verify current recommendations before travel.
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This brief is for informational purposes and does not replace personalized medical advice.
Consult a travel medicine specialist 4–8 weeks before departure.