The Philippines is made up of a number of islands, spectacular beaches, scenery and a lively and bustling cultural scene for tourists and business alike. As a travel destination it is on most people’s list – so it’s important to know what vaccinations might be recommended before you go to the Philippines to ensure you and your family or friends remain safe and healthy while away.
This website provides general advice on vaccinations for The Philippines and is not a substitute for adequate medical advice from the Travel Vaccination Clinic doctor or your own doctor. Before receiving any travel-specific vaccines you should ensure you are up to date with all routine vaccinations. If you are unsure whether you are up to date, ask the doctor to confirm whether you should get a booster shot to protect you.
Checklist
- Ensure you are up to date with childhood vaccinations
- Practice proper food safety and hygiene such as drinking boiled or bottled water, hand washing and eating in cleaner looking restaurants when possible
- Avoid mosquito bites where possible
- Inform the Travel Vaccination Clinic of your full travel plans and itinerary during your appointment
Measles in the Philippines
Measles is of particular concern in the Philippines as new large numbers of cases have been reported as recently as 2014. Measles in adults is far more dangerous than the typical childhood virus.
Make sure you inform the doctor during your appointment if you are not completely up to date with routine vaccinations OR if you have previously had an adverse reaction to any vaccine or medication.
The Travel Vaccination Clinic is here to help you get the most out of your overseas experience in health and happiness. Please ensure that you are open and honest, and ask about any vaccines you are unsure of during your appointment.
Which vaccinations should I get for travel to The Philippines?
Hepatitis A
You may come into contact with the Hepatitis A virus through contaminated food or water in The Philippines, and it is recommended generally that travellers get vaccinated against Hepatitis A before leaving home.
Typhoid
This presents with flu like symptoms, but can be more serious. Typhoid exists in The Philippines and can be passed on to travellers through contaminated food or water. Please read the general information on this vaccine on the Typhoid information page to learn more. You will be strongly advised to get vaccinated against Typhoid if you are travelling to rural areas, visiting friends or relatives while in The Philippines, or if you eat local and exotic foods. Please discuss your plans with the doctor for best advice.
Both Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations can be administered in one shot, and this lasts for a number of years once given. Ask the Travel Vaccination Clinic about getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Typhoid, as well as taking food safety precautions. You should not drink water in The Philippines unless it has been bottled or boiled.
Practicing good food hygiene and hand washing will also help protect you against other food and water borne diseases during your stay in The Philippines.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B can be passed on to you if you meet a new partner while in The Philippines, get a tattoo or piercing or undergo cosmetic medical procedures. The disease can be contracted through sexual contact, or exposure to needles or bodily fluids so the vaccine is highly recommended for anyone who might do anything that puts them at risk of contracting Hepatitis B. To read more the virus, visit the Hepatitis B information page.
It is important if you do visit a doctor or hospital while in The Philippines to ensure medical equipment is properly sterilized, and if you have concerns about this to consult a doctor at home as soon as possible to discuss what to do.
Malaria
Malaria is transmitted to humans via mosquito bite, and is present in The Philippines. Please read the Malaria information page for further general advice on reducing your risk of contracting the disease while away. There are precautions to take against mosquito bites such as using repellent, wearing long, loose clothing, using a mosquito net where possible and avoiding contact with flying insects. You should discuss these with the doctor during your appointment, as other mosquito borne illnesses may also be present.
If you plan on staying longer in The Philippines – more than one month – you may need to be vaccinated against Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis alongside the vaccinations above.
Rabies in The Philippines
The Philippines is not a rabies free country, so you should speak to the doctor about any risks associated with your trip. Please visit the Rabies information page to read more about the vaccine and whether you may require it. Those spending time outdoors, working with animals, taking extended trips through The Philippines and children are all at increased risk according to the US Center for Disease Control.
Japanese Encephalitis in The Philippines
This vaccine may be given or recommended if you are visiting rural areas, staying outdoors or going camping/hiking during your time in The Philippines. Seek further information by discussing your plans with the doctor and confirming whether you may need this vaccine to stay safe during your travels.
Does Yellow Fever exist in the Philippines?
Yellow Fever is not known to be present in the Philippines, and this may mean that you should have with you proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever to be able to enter the Philippines in some circumstances. This is relevant if you are arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever infection (but this does not often include short transits through the airport, for example).