As we welcome 2025, there’s no better time to plan an unforgettable trip to South America. From the breathtaking Andes to the vibrant Amazon rainforest, this diverse continent offers endless adventures. However, before embarking on your journey, it’s crucial to prepare for the health risks unique to the region. Getting the right travel vaccinations for South America protects your wellbeing and ensures you can fully enjoy everything this extraordinary destination offers.
At Brixton Travel Clinic, we specialise in helping travellers get ready for their trips with tailored advice and comprehensive vaccination services. This guide will walk you through the steps to prepare for your South American adventure, focusing on the vaccines and health precautions needed to make your trip safe and enjoyable.
Step 1: Research Your Destination
South America is a vast continent, and the health risks vary greatly depending on where you’re going and what activities you have planned. Urban areas like Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro pose different risks compared to rural or jungle regions such as the Amazon or Patagonia. There are a range of factors to consider when assessing your travel destination:
Country Requirements: Some countries, like Brazil, require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry or transit.
Activities: Jungle treks or remote expeditions may increase your risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like yellow fever or malaria.
Duration: Longer stays may necessitate additional vaccines, such as rabies or hepatitis B.
At Brixton Travel Clinic, we’ll review your itinerary to provide tailored recommendations.
Step 2: Know Which Vaccinations Are Recommended
1. Hepatitis A
Why It’s Needed: Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food and water, making it a common risk for travellers.
Protection: A single dose provides short-term immunity, with a booster offering long-term protection for up to 25 years.
2. Typhoid
Why It’s Needed: Typhoid fever is another food and waterborne illness prevalent in parts of South America.
Protection: A single injection protects for three years, or you can opt for oral capsules.
3. Yellow Fever
Why It’s Needed: Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne disease found in tropical areas, including parts of Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. Some countries require proof of vaccination for entry.
Protection: A single dose offers lifetime immunity.
4. Hepatitis B
Why It’s Needed: Spread through blood and bodily fluids, hepatitis B poses a risk for travellers engaging in activities like tattoos or piercings, or in case of medical emergencies.
Protection: A series of three injections over six months provides long-term immunity.
5. Rabies (Optional)
Why It’s Considered: Rabies is present in South America, particularly in rural areas and among stray animals. Vaccination is recommended for long trips or those with close animal contact.
Protection: Pre-exposure vaccination requires three doses over 28 days.
6. Additional Vaccines:
Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
Japanese Encephalitis: Rare in South America but may be recommended for specific areas.
Step 3: Get Vaccinated Early
It’s essential to start your vaccinations at least 4–6 weeks before your trip. Some vaccines, like yellow fever or rabies, require multiple doses or take time to provide full protection.
Early preparation for travel vaccinations is crucial, as some, like hepatitis B, require a series of injections spread over several months to ensure full immunity. Starting early minimises last-minute stress and gives you time to schedule vaccinations properly, especially if you need boosters. Additionally, some vaccines aren’t always readily available on short notice, so planning ahead ensures you stay fully protected before your trip.
Step 4: Protect Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria are prevalent in many parts of South America. While there is no vaccine for dengue, you can take precautions to avoid bites. Top tips to protect yourself from mosquito bites include:
- Use DEET-based insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing and trousers, especially in the evenings.
- Sleep under a mosquito net if you’re staying in areas without air conditioning.
- For malaria-prone regions, consult us for advice on antimalarial tablets.
Step 5: Stay Healthy During Your Trip
Vaccines are just one part of staying healthy in South America. Follow these additional tips to minimise health risks:
Food and Water Safety
Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid ice unless you’re certain it’s purified. Stick to freshly cooked food and steer clear of raw or undercooked dishes to minimise the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Sun Protection
Use high-SPF sunscreen to shield your skin from the intense South American sun. Stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion, especially during outdoor activities.
Pack a Travel Health Kit
Prepare a health kit with essentials such as painkillers, rehydration salts, anti-diarrhoea medication, and antiseptic cream to handle minor health issues during your trip.
Step 6: Book Your Travel Vaccinations Appointment
Booking your travel vaccine is simple and straightforward. Contact Brixton Travel Clinic, to schedule an appointment. Provide details of your destination, travel dates, and planned activities so our healthcare professionals can recommend the necessary vaccinations. You can also take advantage of online booking or contact us over the phone for added convenience, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your trip.
Protect Yourself Heading into the New Year
Travelling to South America is an incredible way to start the New Year, but proper preparation is key to ensuring your adventure is safe and enjoyable. By getting the right travel vaccinations for South America, you can protect yourself from preventable illnesses and focus on exploring everything this beautiful continent has to offer.
Book your vaccination appointment at Brixton Travel Clinic today and let us help you make your 2025 South American journey a healthy and unforgettable experience.
This blog was written on behalf of Brixton Travel Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.