With the PANAFEST (Pan-African Historical Theatre Festival) celebration in July, many UK travellers are preparing for an unforgettable cultural and spiritual journey to Ghana.
Whether you’re reconnecting with ancestral roots or attending the vibrant performances and historical site visits, it’s crucial to prepare not just your itinerary but also your health.
This guide outlines the key vaccinations for Ghana that UK travellers should consider, and highlights essential malaria precautions, helping you stay safe and healthy throughout your PANAFEST 2025 journey.
Importance of Travel Vaccines
Ghana is a tropical destination where certain infectious diseases are more common than in the UK. Vaccination is a crucial part of travel preparation.
The combination of a warm climate, rural activities, and exposure to different environments increases health risks. PANAFEST events often involve large gatherings and visits to historical or remote regions.
Recommended Ghana Vaccinations
Key vaccines UK travellers should consider:
Yellow Fever Vaccine
- Required for entry: Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for Ghana.
- Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
- You’ll receive an International Certificate (ICVP) to show at entry.
Hepatitis A Protection
- Transmitted through contaminated food and water.
- One dose protects for a year; a booster lasts up to 25 years.
Typhoid Fever Risk
- Also spread via food and water.
- Highly recommended for rural travel and local PANAFEST activities.
Tetanus Booster Advice
- Get a booster if your last Td/IPV dose was over 10 years ago.
Hepatitis B Safety
- Transmitted through blood or body fluids.
- Recommended for long stays, volunteers, or adventurous travellers.
Optional Rabies Protection
- Consider for rural visits or interaction with animals.
- Not essential for PANAFEST events, but useful for broader travel.
Ghana Malaria Prevention
There is no vaccine for malaria, but antimalarial tablets offer strong protection.
Ghana is a high-risk malaria zone, proactive measures are
essential.
Malaria Prevention Tips
- Antimalarial Tablets: Get the right medication from your travel clinic.
- Mosquito Protection:
- Use 50% DEET repellent.
- Sleep under mosquito nets.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing at dusk and dawn.
- Monitor Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms during or after travel? Seek help quickly.
When to Vaccinate
Start health planning 6 to 8 weeks before your trip. Some vaccines require multiple doses or time to take effect.
Contact Holborn Travel Clinic to schedule your vaccinations.
Stay Safe at PANAFEST
PANAFEST celebrates African heritage and resilience through music, theatre, and community gatherings.
Protect yourself with the right vaccinations and malaria precautions to fully enjoy this inspiring event.
Travel smart, stay safe, and make the most of PANAFEST 2025.
