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Iguazu Falls Overview
Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is considered as one of the great natural wonders in the world. Most visitors choose to view the falls from both the Argentina and Brazil side as 300 waterfalls span nearly 2 miles of trails. The falls are shrouded in lush rainforest and spotting wildlife like coatis, capibaras, and monkeys is common.
Is Yellow Fever Vaccine Recommended for Iguazu Falls?
Yes, if you have plans to visit Iguazu Falls, even for a short visit, the yellow fever immunization is highly recommended by public health including the CDC. The mosquito responsible for yellow fever disease is found on the Argentina and Brazil sides of the falls and in nearby Paraguay. Infection with the yellow fever virus can result in life-threatening illness; but the good news is the vaccine is highly effective. For many people, a single dose is adequate for life-time protection.
Is the Yellow Fever Vaccine Required to Visit Iguazu Falls?
Due to the proximity of Iguazu Falls to the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, it’s likely you will be passing through several different countries during your visit to Iguazu Falls. A certificate showing proof of vaccination against yellow fever can be required by Paraguay after visiting or transiting through Brazil. Some travelers choose to lodge overnight in Paraguay, so check your itinerary carefully. Upon receiving the yellow fever vaccine, an official certificate with stamp, known as the ICVP or “Yellow Card” is issued in your name; keep this document with your passport as proof of vaccination.
Do I Need Antimalarial Medication for Iguazu Falls?
There is no risk for malaria at Iguazu Falls, and tablets to prevent malaria infection are not needed.
Keep in mind however, that other mosquito illnesses like dengue fever and chikungunya are a concern and precautions need to be taken to prevent infection against these painful diseases.
What Vaccines are Suggested for Iguazu Falls?
In addition to the yellow fever vaccine, other immunizations you should receive before your trip to Iguazu Falls include typhoid fever and hepatitis A. These two illnesses are spread easily from contaminated food and beverages and are found throughout Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, and not just at Iguazu Falls. Also, be sure you’re up-to-date on other routine vaccinations like hepatitis B, measles (MMR), and tetanus (Tdap) for your trip to Iguazu Falls. For some adventure and longer-term travelers the rabies vaccine and chikungunya vaccine may also be suggested as part of your plans to visit Iguazu Falls.
Visit Destination Health Clinic Before Iguazu Falls
Because we specialize in travel health, our clinics have the vaccinations and health information you need to keep you safe and well while on your adventure to Iguazu Falls and other regions of Brazil. Appointments are available at any of our three locations; Braintree – South Shore, Springfield – Longmeadow, or Natick – Framingham office.
