Vaccinations and Advice for Lesotho
Water and diamonds are Lesotho’s largest natural resources. Dams provide water throughout the region and diamonds mines dot the landscape. Due to its mountainous terrain, Lesotho is a sought after location for serious hikers.
Sesotho is the official language of Lesotho and is spoken by the largest ethnic group in Lesotho: the Basotho. 90% of the population practises Christianity.
When travelling to Lesotho, remember to always respond when spoken to and never get angry. Both are seen as highly disrespectful.
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Lesotho |
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VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
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Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
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. |
Cholera | Food & Water | A risk in some regions. Especially recommended for those visiting rural areas. |
Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Polio | Food & Water | Proof of vaccination required for stays over 4 weeks. Active infection in some parts of country. Cases reported in last 12 months. |
Routine Vaccinations for Lesotho |
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VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
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Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
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. |
Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |