Vaccinations for Ghana: What UK Travellers Need to Know for PANAFEST 2025

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 blog will walk you through the vaccinations for Ghana that UK travellers should consider and highlight precautions related to malaria in Ghana, helping you stay safe while soaking in every moment of this landmark festival.

Why Vaccinations Matter When Travelling to Ghana

Ghana is a tropical destination where certain infectious diseases are more common than in the UK. There are several vaccinations for Ghana recommended to ensure your trip remains healthy and hassle-free.

Some diseases present in Ghana may not be common in the UK, and the combination of warm climate, rural travel, and exposure to new environments increases the risk of illness. 

PANAFEST involves activities that may include outdoor gatherings, excursions to historical landmarks, and visits to remote regions, all of which make vaccination a necessary part of your travel checklist.

Recommended Vaccinations for Ghana

Here are the primary vaccinations for Ghana that travellers from the UK should consider:

Yellow Fever (Mandatory)

• Required for entry: Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Ghana.

• Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.

• You’ll receive an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) which must be presented at the border.

Hepatitis A

• Spread via contaminated food and water.

• One dose offers protection for a year, with a booster extending protection for up to 25 years.

Typhoid

• Also transmitted through food and drink.

• Particularly recommended for travellers visiting friends or relatives in local communities or attending rural PANAFEST events.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio (Td/IPV)

• Typically part of routine UK immunisations, but a booster may be advised if your last dose was over 10 years ago.

Hepatitis B

• Transmitted through blood and bodily fluids.

• Recommended for longer stays or those involved in healthcare, volunteer work, or adventurous activities.

Rabies (Optional but Considered for Rural Travel)

• Consider if you’ll be visiting rural areas or interacting closely with animals.

• While not a PANAFEST essential, it’s worth evaluating based on your broader travel plans.

Malaria in Ghana: Prevention is Key

While there is no vaccine for malaria, malaria tablets can significantly reduce your risk of infection. 

Malaria is endemic in Ghana and requires serious prevention steps.

Malaria Precautions for UK Travellers:

• Antimalarial Tablets: Several options exist and your travel clinic can advise based on your health profile.

• Mosquito Protection:

  • Use 50% DEET insect repellent.

  • Sleep under mosquito nets, especially in rural or budget accommodations.

  • Wear long-sleeved clothing in the evenings and early mornings.

• Be vigilant: Early symptoms of malaria resemble flu—if you feel unwell during or after your trip, seek medical advice immediately.

When to Get Vaccinated

It’s best to start your travel health planning 6 to 8 weeks before departure. Some vaccinations require multiple doses or time to become effective, so early action is essential. 

Contact Holborn Travel Clinic for a free consultation and to book your vaccinations.

Celebrate Safely at PANAFEST

PANAFEST is a profound celebration of heritage, resistance, and reunion. 

With music, theatre, historical reflection, and community at its core, the event attracts thousands of diaspora visitors from around the globe. 

By ensuring you’re protected with the necessary vaccinations for Ghana and taking steps to prevent malaria in Ghana, you’re setting yourself up for a safe and inspiring experience.

Travel smart, plan ahead, and immerse yourself in the powerful legacy and energy of PANAFEST 2025.