Traveling To Thailand? Find Out Which Vaccines Are Right For You

Thinking of Thailand invokes images of blue waters, sparkling beaches and tropical drinks while watching the sunset. Who doesn’t dream of relaxing on a stunning beach in Thailand and snorkeling through the azure waters? However, make sure you are well protected before your exotic adventure. Vaccinations for Thailand can help ensure your good health during your trip and upon your return home.

Which Vaccines Do I Need for Thailand?

Vaccination recommendations vary based on itinerary. If you are traveling to Thailand for business or pleasure you may need certain vaccinations, but an aid worker, for example, will likely need many more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization recommend you receive these vaccines:

• Typhoid– Food and water in Thailand have been known to carry typhoid. Be careful with what you eat and drink, and make sure you are vaccinated.
• Japanese Encephalitis– This vaccine is very important for many travelers to the region. Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne disease, meaning you could catch it at any time. Take proper precautions against mosquitoes in general, and speak with a travel health specialist about the vaccine.
• Hepatitis A– Another food and waterborne disease, hepatitis A affects many each year. Make sure you are up to date on this immunization.
• Hepatitis B– Transmitted through contaminated needles, blood products and sex, hepatitis B can be a serious risk. Vaccination is key to preventing the disease.
• Rabies– While not a common disease in Thailand, the rabies vaccine is recommened for some travelers who may have contact with wild animals.

For more information on these vaccines or to find out where to schedule a travel consultation at your local Passport Health clinic, give us a call at or book online today.

Which Other Diseases Are Present In Thailand?

Sometimes there aren’t vaccinations to protect against some diseases. Though Thailand is a magical place, these diseases can be present:

• Malaria– The CDC recommends antimalarial medication for some itineraries. Talk with a travel health specialist to learn if this applies to you.
• Dengue Fever– This mosquito-borne disease is present in Thailand, so be sure to use netting and mosquito repellents when possible.
• Zika Virus cases have been reported in Thailand. Pregnant women may want to consider postponing a trip. Precautions against mosquitoes are recommended for all travelers.
• Traveler’s Diarrhea is the most common illness to afflict international travelers, and traveler’s diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors. To avoid it, be sure to watch what and where you eat, and avoid unfiltered water or ice cubes. Remedies like DiaResQ can help treat diarrhea if it occurs.
• Bed Bugs– While this may seem odd, bed bugs are in issue in Thailand, according to the CDC. If you suspect there are bed bugs where you are staying, contact the manager or landlord.

To learn more about these infections, see their respective pages. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, schedule your appointment with a Passport Health travel health specialist today by calling or booking online now.

What Else Should I Know Before Leaving For Thailand?

With amazing beaches and fantastic sights like Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Thailand is a ‘must visit’ for many international travelers. But, there is some more prep work need to help you get ready for your trip.

Be sure to have your itinerary finalized before you go. Having this ready will help you be better prepared for what you’re planning on doing and keep you safe. Thailand is a generally safe country, but some places off the beaten path require caution.

Also, don’t forget to have your passport ready. While Thailand doesn’t require a visa for stays under 30 days, you will need to have at least six months’ validity left on your passport. If you need any help or have any questions about renewing your passport, please feel free to reach out to Passport Health’s Passport and Visa Expediting Service for help. Our representatives can be reached by calling 1-844-366-8472 or contact us online now.

Six weeks before your scheduled departure date for Thailand, make a visit to a Passport Health travel health specialist. We will review your medical history, provide the vaccinations and preventive medications you need, and give you advice to help keep you healthy before, during, and after your trip. Call us at or book your appointment online and start protecting yourself today.

Do you have any travel tips for Thailand? Share them with the Passport Health community in the comments below, on Facebook or via Twitter.