Health

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in Zambia including:

  • yellow fever
  • malaria
  • dengue fever
  • cholera
  • mpox

The UNAIDS Zambia country progress report of 2020 estimated the overall HIV prevalence in the adult population is 11%, compared to a prevalence of 0.2% in adults in the UK. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.  

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Zambia

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Zambia.

Medical facilities throughout Zambia are of a lower standard than in the UK. Facilities in rural areas are basic and emergency services are limited. Carry basic medical supplies. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.