Uganda has initiated a countrywide yellow fever vaccination drive to safeguard its population against the mosquito-borne viral disease.
Dr. Michael Baganizi, an immunization official at the health ministry, reported that by the end of April, 12.2 million of the targeted 14 million Ugandans had been vaccinated. He also announced that Uganda will now require all travellers entering and leaving the country to present a yellow fever vaccination card.
Officials hope this new requirement will encourage more people to receive the vaccine. However, vaccine hesitancy remains a concern among healthcare providers in Uganda.
The yellow fever vaccine, administered as a single injection, is available free of charge to Ugandans aged one to sixty. Vaccination centers have been set up in various locations, including the capital city Kampala, at schools, universities, hospitals, and local government offices.
With a population exceeding 45 million, Uganda is one of 27 African countries classified as high-risk for yellow fever outbreaks. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), yellow fever causes approximately 200,000 cases and 30,000 deaths globally each year. Uganda’s most recent outbreak occurred earlier this year in the central regions of Buikwe and Buvuma.
Yellow fever is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While most infections are asymptomatic, the WHO notes that symptoms can include fever, muscle pain, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
Uganda’s vaccination initiative is part of a global campaign launched in 2017 aimed at eliminating yellow fever by 2026. The WHO, along with partners such as the UN Children’s Agency, aims to protect nearly one billion people across Africa, North America, and South America.
A study published last year revealed that by August 2022, 185 million people in high-risk African countries had been vaccinated against yellow fever. In Uganda, the majority of people receive the yellow fever vaccine when travelling to countries like South Africa, which requires proof of vaccination upon entry.
As a seasoned travel consultant with over a decade of experience, I've dedicated my career to exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of Africa. My passion for travel goes far beyond booking flights and hotels; it's about connecting with the heart and soul of each destination. I have personally navigated the bustling markets of Marrakech, trekked the rugged terrains of the Drakensberg, and witnessed the breathtaking wildlife of the Serengeti.My extensive firsthand knowledge of the African continent is complemented by a vast and dynamic network of fellow travel enthusiasts, local guides, and industry experts. This is a powerful community that provides a continuous flow of real-time, personal experiences and invaluable insights. This means the information and recommendations I provide are not just based on my own adventures, but are enriched by a collective wealth of current and authentic travel tales.In this space, I share my deep expertise and insider tips to help you craft your own unforgettable journeys. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, my goal is to provide you with the most reliable, comprehensive, and up-to-date information so you can travel with confidence and enthusiasm.
Uganda Enforces Travel Restrictions Amid Yellow Fever Vaccination
Uganda has initiated a countrywide yellow fever vaccination drive to safeguard its population against the mosquito-borne viral disease.
Dr. Michael Baganizi, an immunization official at the health ministry, reported that by the end of April, 12.2 million of the targeted 14 million Ugandans had been vaccinated. He also announced that Uganda will now require all travellers entering and leaving the country to present a yellow fever vaccination card.
Officials hope this new requirement will encourage more people to receive the vaccine. However, vaccine hesitancy remains a concern among healthcare providers in Uganda.
The yellow fever vaccine, administered as a single injection, is available free of charge to Ugandans aged one to sixty. Vaccination centers have been set up in various locations, including the capital city Kampala, at schools, universities, hospitals, and local government offices.
With a population exceeding 45 million, Uganda is one of 27 African countries classified as high-risk for yellow fever outbreaks. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), yellow fever causes approximately 200,000 cases and 30,000 deaths globally each year. Uganda’s most recent outbreak occurred earlier this year in the central regions of Buikwe and Buvuma.
Yellow fever is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While most infections are asymptomatic, the WHO notes that symptoms can include fever, muscle pain, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
Uganda’s vaccination initiative is part of a global campaign launched in 2017 aimed at eliminating yellow fever by 2026. The WHO, along with partners such as the UN Children’s Agency, aims to protect nearly one billion people across Africa, North America, and South America.
A study published last year revealed that by August 2022, 185 million people in high-risk African countries had been vaccinated against yellow fever. In Uganda, the majority of people receive the yellow fever vaccine when travelling to countries like South Africa, which requires proof of vaccination upon entry.
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Updated on July 10, 2025 by TravelNinja
Enthusiastic Travel Consultant
As a seasoned travel consultant with over a decade of experience, I've dedicated my career to exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of Africa. My passion for travel goes far beyond booking flights and hotels; it's about connecting with the heart and soul of each destination. I have personally navigated the bustling markets of Marrakech, trekked the rugged terrains of the Drakensberg, and witnessed the breathtaking wildlife of the Serengeti.My extensive firsthand knowledge of the African continent is complemented by a vast and dynamic network of fellow travel enthusiasts, local guides, and industry experts. This is a powerful community that provides a continuous flow of real-time, personal experiences and invaluable insights. This means the information and recommendations I provide are not just based on my own adventures, but are enriched by a collective wealth of current and authentic travel tales.In this space, I share my deep expertise and insider tips to help you craft your own unforgettable journeys. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, my goal is to provide you with the most reliable, comprehensive, and up-to-date information so you can travel with confidence and enthusiasm.Comments
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