Tropical diseases in Uganda
Uganda is known for its incredible biodiversity. From wildlife to landscapes, nature is everywhere. And yes, that also includes tropical bacteria and viruses.
Over the years, diseases like Ebola, Marburg, and Zika have occasionally made international headlines. The good news is that Uganda responds very quickly to outbreaks. The country works closely with major international health organizations like the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).
For travelers, these diseases are extremely rare. Our advice is simple: do not worry too much. Uganda has strong experience in managing outbreaks and keeping travelers safe.
Arrivals at Entebbe Airport
Arriving at Entebbe International Airport is usually simple and straightforward. This is the process you can expect after landing:
- Sanitize your hands on arrival
- Have your travel documents checked
- Pass through immigration. If you are visiting as a tourist, make sure you apply for your Uganda visa online before travelling. Some airlines may refuse boarding without a visa approval letter
- Collect your checked luggage
- ATMs and foreign exchange services are available near the baggage area if you need cash
- Put all luggage, including hand luggage, through the final scanner
- Just after the baggage area, the Uganda Tourism Board has an information desk with seating. Staff can help tourists with phone calls, taxis, and general assistance 24 hours a day
- Free WiFi is available at the airport
- Exit the airport
- Step outside and enjoy the beautiful Ugandan weather
Yellow Fever Vaccination Nolonger Mandantory to Enter Uganda
There has been a negligible risk of yellow fever in Uganda. For many years, however, travellers were required to show proof of vaccination, with only a few exceptions.
AUGUST 2026: Recently, I have received more questions from travellers about the yellow fever certificate. When you apply for a tourist visa through the Uganda immigration website, you currently do not need to upload a yellow fever certificate. At the moment, this is the only official indication I have.
A medical colleague has also requested written confirmation from the Ministry of Health. If I receive it, I will update this article. In the meantime, reports from travellers who have recently entered Uganda are reassuring. Based on these reports, a yellow fever vaccination certificate does not currently appear to be required for entry into Uganda.
Ebola In Uganda - The Outbreak is officially over
At one point in mid-2026, travellers arriving at Entebbe Airport were asked to complete an online contact-tracing form as part of the Ebola response. This is no longer necessary. The World Health Organization has officially declared the Ebola outbreak in Uganda over, marking the end of the outbreak and the measures introduced to help contain it.
Which diseases should I worry about if I’m travelling to Uganda?
For most travelers, malaria is the main health concern in Uganda. The good news is that with the right preparation and precautions, the risk can be greatly reduced.
While I am not a medical professional, I am a Ugandan who live in Uganda and regularly follow the latest travel health updates. I also stay in close contact with experts in tropical and travel medicine.
For official and up-to-date health information, we recommend following the the Ministry of Health’s X account 
. It is the best source for the latest health information in Uganda.
Are you planning a trip to Uganda soon? Feel free to contact us directly if you have any travel or health-related questions. We are always happy to help.
