Travel Vaccines and Advice for Comoros
The Comoros are a beautiful island chain located off the coast of East Africa. While they do not have a strong tourism industry, they boast pristine beaches, breathtaking mountain ranges, and aquatic attractions such as deep sea fishing and snorkeling.
The most popular destination in the Comoros is the largest island, of Grand Comore. With a landscape that is equal parts agricultural and waterfront, it is a prime location for visitors seeking unforgettable views.
The Comoros’ other major sites include the islands of Moheli and Anjouan, and the cities of Fomboni and Mutsamudu. Although not as well known as other island chains, Comoros offers plenty to see and do for any adventurous traveller.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Comoros?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Comoros
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Comoros?
What Is the Climate Like in Comoros?
How Safe Is Comoros?
Mount Karthala in the Comoros
What Should I Take to Comoros?
Canadian Embassy in Comoros
Do I Need Vaccines for Comoros?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Comoros. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Comoros: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Comoros |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Comoros |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is primarily transmitted through tainted food and water. Protection against this disease involves vaccination combined with good hygiene and careful food consumption.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects mammals and spreads through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Preventing rabies involves vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals, and seeking immediate medical attention if exposed. The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventive measure that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
Malaria in Comoros
Malaria is widespread in Comoros. Antimalarials are recommended for all travellers to the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are often given to travellers to Comoros. Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.
The medical care in the Comoros is rudimentary, and many of the facilities are in poor condition. Consider bringing medical supplies when travelling, as they are harder to come by on the islands.
For more details on any of the above vaccinations, visit the detailed Passport Health specialty vaccinations page or make an appointment with your local Travel Medicine Specialist. To book your appointment either call or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Comoros
Prevent Bug Bites in Comoros
Keep bugs at bay by dressing smartly and applying EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or OLE. In case of a bug bite, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and find relief with readily available remedies. If symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Food and Water Safety in Comoros
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options.
Infections To Be Aware of in Comoros
- Dengue – The threat of dengue fever, carried by Aedes mosquitoes, looms large worldwide, with millions infected each year. Prevention through nettings and repellents is a must.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Comoros?
Canadians must obtain a visa to visit the Comoros. You may obtain a 45-day tourist visa upon arrival at the Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni or at other points of entry.
Comoros Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Comoros? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Comoros and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Comoros?
Comoros is a group of islands off the east coast of Africa with warm and humid weather all year. The country has a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.
Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan experience similar weather conditions. The wet season has heavy rainfall and high humidity. The dry season has less rainfall and lower humidity. The temperature on the islands ranges from 20 to 30 degrees throughout the year.
Visitors should be prepared for high humidity and the possibility of heavy rainfall, especially during the wet season. It’s essential to check the current weather conditions before travelling to Comoros. The climate can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be informed before going.
How Safe Is Comoros?
Criminal activity against travellers is relatively low in the Comoros. The most common incidents are pick-pocketing and other instances of petty theft. The best way to prevent this is to be vigilant in public spaces and always protect one’s belongings.
Because of the country’s current state of political unrest travellers should avoid large gatherings and areas of demonstration.
Piracy is an issue in the Comoros. Small vessels travelling between the islands are vulnerable to hostile attention.
Mount Karthala in the Comoros
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Mount Karthala is a big volcano on an island in Comoros, Africa. It is a famous place for tourists to visit because it has beautiful views and interesting things to see. People can go hiking to the top of the volcano, which takes a couple of days and is challenging but worth it.
Visitors can also see lava flows, craters, and hot springs on the mountain.
Mount Karthala has many different plants and animals, some of which can only be found on the mountain. People who like adventure can go mountain biking, camping, or take off-road vehicle tours. It is important to check with local authorities before visiting the volcano because it is active and can be dangerous.
What Should I Take to Comoros?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to the Comoros:
- Paper Currency – Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Comoros. Make sure to bring euros and USD, as many locations will take these.
- Breathable Clothing– The climate of the Comoros is often hot and humid. Wear clothing that is not too thick, and that you would mind getting wet.
- Satellite Phone – These are the easiest way to communicate to parties outside of the Comoros. There is also Internet available in some locations.
- Proof of Return Ticket – Travellers will not be allowed to enter the country without proof of a return ticket. Make sure you have this on hand upon entrance.
- Basic Health Supplies-Supplies like bandages and aspirin can be hard to come by in the Comoros, so be sure to pack them.
Canadian Embassy in Comoros
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. There are no consular services in Comoros. For any consular needs, contact the Canadian Embassy in Tanzania:
Canadian Embassy to Tanzania
26 Garden Avenue / 38 Mirambo Street,
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel.: 255 (22) 216-3300/255 (22) 211-2831/255 (687) 216-330
If you have any questions about travelling to the Comoros or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Comoros
“Nurse was well prepared to give me information that was pertinent to my medical history and to my trip to Comoros. I was able to get the medications at the location which saved me a trip to the pharmacy. Good service, friendly atmosphere, and on time. Thanks.”
“Visiting Passport Health was a completely smooth and drama-free experience. I was sent an online form to get as much health history and travel plans as possible, so when I met with the health consultant we could get right to which vaccines and medication is needed for Comoros. Because I will be travelling RTW for a year there was a lot to go through, but my consultant presented the information in a clear and concise manner, and listed the cost of everything. She helped me confirm my medical insurance coverage and I got my vaccines within the hour.”
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