Travel Vaccines and Advice for Ghana
Ghana is considered a good and welcoming place, especially for first-time travellers to Africa. Tourism is a growing industry in Ghana.
Ghana presents a lot of opportunities to experience Africa through national parks, nature reserves and villages.
English is the official language of Ghana. But, not always the primary language people speak. Local languages also include Ga, Twi and Ewe.
The largest city, Accra is also the capital city of Ghana. Accra is a growing city with modern amenities of hotels, restaurants and a vast number of museums.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Ghana?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Ghana
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Ghana?
What Is the Climate Like in Ghana?
Is It Safe to Travel to Ghana?
Coastal Forts in Ghana
What Should I Take to Ghana?
Canadian Embassy in Ghana
Do I Need Vaccines for Ghana?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Ghana. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Ghana: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, meningitis, influenza, pneumonia, 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required for all travellers over 9 months of age. - 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. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) - 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. - 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 Ghana |
||
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required for all travellers over 9 months of age. |
| 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. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) |
Routine Vaccinations for Ghana |
||
| 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. |
| 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 fever, a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those at risk, along with maintaining good hygiene and food safety.
- Hepatitis A – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Yellow Fever – Vaccination is the cornerstone of yellow fever prevention. The live, attenuated yellow fever vaccine is highly effective and provides lifetime immunity. It is a crucial measure for individuals travelling to or residing in areas where the disease is endemic, as it combats the primary mode of transmission via infected mosquitoes.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting mammals, including humans, primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is key to preventing rabies, with pre-exposure shots effectively preventing infection.
- 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.
- Meningitis – Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. The meningitis vaccine effectively protects against various types of meningitis, especially bacterial, crucial for preventing serious complications like brain damage or even death.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Preventing their transmission is possible through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. This two-dose vaccine not only safeguards individuals but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within communities.
Yellow Fever in Ghana
While proof of yellow fever vaccination is not required for entry to Ghana, it is highly recommended. Yellow fever transmission is widespread throughout Ghana, some countries may require proof of immunization when travelling to them from Ghana.
Malaria in Ghana
Malaria is present in all regions of Ghana. Travellers are advised to take antimalarials no matter their destination or itinerary in the country. Malaria in Ghana is chloroquine resistant, be sure to speak with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial is best for your trip.
Outside of Accra, access to medical facilities is limited. Make sure to bring any prescriptions you will need.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Ghana
Prevent Bug Bites in Ghana
Protect yourself from bug bites by wearing long clothing and using PHAC-recommended repellents like DEET or picaridin. Avoid bug-prone areas during peak hours to reduce the risk.
Food and Water Safety in Ghana
Safeguard your health while abroad by consuming cooked and hot foods, opting for bottled or sealed drinks, and practicing proper hand-washing. Limit your exposure to risky local dishes. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain these precautions: eat carefully prepared foods, avoid untreated water, sanitize your hands, consider probiotics, and exercise caution with unfamiliar cuisine.
Infections To Be Aware of in Ghana
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) spreads through tick bites. Protect yourself by wearing long clothing, applying insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks. Consult healthcare providers for options before travelling to affected areas.
- Dengue – Dengue fever, a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, is characterized by symptoms like high fever and rash. Prevention involves protective measures against mosquito bites and eliminating breeding sites. For those affected, seeking prompt medical care, staying hydrated, and using specific pain relievers under guidance is essential for recovery.
- Lassa Fever – Lassa fever, endemic in West Africa, is caused by the Lassa virus and transmitted through rodents and direct human contact. Prevention efforts include good hygiene practices, and healthcare workers’ vigilance to control its spread.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand fly bites, can be prevented by adopting protective measures such as using insect repellents, covering exposed skin, and staying indoors when sand flies are active.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease transmitted through contaminated water, poses a health risk. Prevention strategies include avoiding freshwater activities and wearing protective clothing. Prompt medical attention is necessary if symptoms like fever or abdominal pain occur.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Ghana?
In order to enter Ghana, Canadian citizens with a valid passport still require a visa to enter the country. Either a tourist visa or business visa are required. All visas must be processed and approved before you arrive in Ghana.
Ghana Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Ghana? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Ghana 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 Ghana?
Ghana is a country with many popular tourist destinations, and each has its own unique weather patterns. The capital city, Accra, has a tropical savanna climate with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees throughout the year. The rainy season there is from April to July, with heavy downpours in June and July. Cape Coast, a coastal city, has the same climate as Accra, and its rainy season is from May to September.
Kumasi, the cultural capital of Ghana, has a tropical wet and dry climate with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30, and its rainy season runs from April to October. Tamale, a northern city, has a tropical wet and dry climate with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35, and its rainy season runs from May to October.
It’s important to remember that the weather can vary from day to day. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before travelling to Ghana, especially during the rainy season.
Is It Safe to Travel to Ghana?
Ghana is facing an increased threat from terrorist groups. Kidnapping that target Westerners have occurred in Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali.
Petty crime and scams are the most common crime that travellers face. Armed robbery and money solicitations at airports are on the rise.
Always remember to travel in groups and avoid travelling at night.
Homosexuality is illegal in Ghana and imprisonment can be from 3-10 years.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.
Coastal Forts in Ghana
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
The coastal forts of Ghana are a page out of history that helped create progress in Ghana’s modern world.
One of the largest forts in Ghana is the Cape Coast Castle that overlooks the sea. It was one of the world’s largest slave-holding sites and it still reflects the horror of that time.
The castle holds dungeons where slaves were held up to twelve weeks. In contrast, the castle also has a lavish governor’s bedroom to illustrate the inequality of the age.
Other forts to check out in Ghana include Fort Metal Cross, Fort Batenstein and Osu Castle.
What Should I Take to Ghana?
When travelling to Ghana, it’s important to pack some essential items to have a safe and comfortable trip. Here is a list of what to bring:
- Passport and visas: Make sure you have a valid passport and any necessary visas for entry into Ghana.
- Travel documents: Carry copies of your travel documents, including your passport, travel insurance and emergency contact information.
- Vaccination certificate: Make sure you have proof of vaccination against yellow fever, as it is required for entry into Ghana. Other vaccinations, such as for hepatitis A and B, are also recommended.
- Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and skirts. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sandals, and a hat to protect you from the sun.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in Ghana, bring insect repellent containing DEET.
- Power adapter: Bring a universal power adapter.
- Money: Bring some local currency for small purchases. You can also bring a debit or credit card to withdraw cash from ATMs or make purchases at larger establishments.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with a high SPF sunscreen.
Water bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle to fill up with clean drinking water.
Remember to pack light and bring appropriate clothing for the climate. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations on what to do and see in Ghana.
Canadian Embassy in Ghana
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in Ghana, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of Accra.
High Commission of Canada in Ghana
42 Independence Avenue
Accra, Ghana
Telephone: +233 (0) 302 21 15 21 / +233 (0) 302 22 85 55
If you have any questions about travelling to Ghana 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 Ghana
“We are going to Ghana and had a good experience. The nurse who working with us was very thorough, polite, knowledgeable, and helpful. She explained things well and answered all our questions. She also gave us a good amount of written material. We would return.”
“The nurse was very exemplary in describing each vaccine I needed for my trip to Ghana. Thank you!”
“The service provided by the nurse in the Whitby office was excellent,. She was professional, friendly and organized. BY providing a package about Ghana and her knowledge of the area she made me feel very comfortable.”
“The nurse was very helpful and knowledgeable made it easy to decide what immunizing to do for Ghana.”
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