Travel Vaccines and Advice for Afghanistan
Embodied by mountainous terrain and rugged landscapes, Afghanistan is an underrated beauty. With iconic sculptures and undeniable historic significance, it is a gem built for every kind of traveler.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Afghanistan?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Afghanistan
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Afghanistan
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Afghanistan?
What Is the Climate Like in Afghanistan?
How Safe Is Afghanistan?
Cross the Salang Pass
What Should I Take to Afghanistan?
U.S. Embassy In Afghanistan
Do I Need Vaccines for Afghanistan?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Afghanistan. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Afghanistan: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- 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 –
Recommended for travel to most regions. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - 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. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - 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. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Afghanistan |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Recommended for travel to most regions. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| 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. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Afghanistan |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| 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. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is primarily transmitted through tainted food and water. Protection against this disease involves vaccination combined with good hygiene and careful food consumption.
- Cholera – Cholera is a waterborne disease caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria. It’s transmitted through contaminated water or food. Vaccination is the best form of protection.
- Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- Polio – Polio is a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. The polio vaccine effectively prevents this virus. It’s a critical component of routine childhood immunizations worldwide and has been instrumental in nearly eradicating polio globally.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection, is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention includes practicing safe behaviors, but the cornerstone of protection is hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine activates the immune system, generating antibodies that offer potent and enduring defense against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
Malaria in Afghanistan
Malaria is present in all regions under 8,200 feet across Afghanistan from April to December. Travelers to those regions at these times should take antimalarials as a form of protection. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are recommended antimalarials for the region. The malaria parasite in Afghanistan is resistant to chloroquine. A travel health specialist will help identify which antimalarial is best for you and your trip.
Polio is still a very real threat in some parts of Afghanistan. Vaccination is highly recommended for travelers. You may be required to show proof of polio vaccination upon entering the country.
Cholera is another infection still found in regions of the country. Vaccination is highly recommended. As with all food-borne illnesses, vaccination is the best form of protection.
Malaria and dengue are present in Afghanistan. Bring mosquito repellent, netting and wearing protective clothing. Antimalarials may be recommended based on your itinerary.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Afghanistan
Prevent Bug Bites in Afghanistan
Prevent bug bites by wearing long clothing and using EPA-registered insect repellents like DEET or picaridin. Be mindful of bug-prone hours and secure your sleeping space with nets and screens. If bitten, clean the affected area, avoid scratching, and consider over-the-counter treatments, while promptly seeking medical attention for severe symptoms.
Food and Water Safety in Afghanistan
Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation. A travelers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Altitude Sickness in Afghanistan
Altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headaches and fatigue, occurs at high elevations due to oxygen deficiency. To prevent it, ascend gradually, hydrate sufficiently, and consider medication. If symptoms emerge, promptly descend to lower altitudes for recovery.
Infections To Be Aware Of in Afghanistan
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, a severe viral illness, spreads through infected ticks and direct human contact with bodily fluids. Prevention includes tick avoidance, protective measures in healthcare settings, and the development of a potential vaccine to curb its transmission.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. Symptoms can escalate from mild fever to life-threatening conditions. Preventing mosquito bites is key to avoidance, with recommendations including repellent and netting use.
- Leishmaniasis – Sand fly bites are the main mode of leishmaniasis transmission, but it can spread through other means. Prevention measures include using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and minimizing outdoor activities during times when sand fly are most active.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Afghanistan
- Polio – Afghanistan is one of many countries that has reported an instance of polio in the last 12 months. Travelers are advised to make sure their polio vaccination is up-to-date before travel to the region. Those who previously received a full set of polio immunization may need a single, lifetime booster shot.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Afghanistan?
A valid passport and visa are required for entry into Afghanistan. Proof of polio vaccination may be required for some travelers.
Passports must have at least six months’ validity and one blank page for entry. Individuals may not bring in or leave with more than $20,000 USD.
Afghanistan Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Afghanistan? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Afghanistan and U.S. State Department
Travelers must register with the Ministry of the Interior’s Foreigners’ Registration Office upon arrival. There is a location at Kabul International Airport and others throughout the region.
What Is the Climate Like in Afghanistan?
The weather in Afghanistan is predictable. Hot summers, and cold winters.
Summer temperatures easily reach the high-110’s. Midwinter temperatures as low as the mid-teens are common around the Hindu Kush. The highlands vary with elevation. The coolest temperatures usually occur on the heights of the mountains.
Temperatures show range greatly on a daily basis. Mornings can be near freezing. But, by the afternoon it can reach up the low-90’s.
In the mountains bordering Pakistan, Indian monsoons bring moist tropical air in summer. While the frontal winds from the west may bring large sandstorms or dust storms.
How Safe Is Afghanistan?
United States citizens are advised to avoid travel to Afghanistan.
The country has the highest incidence rate of domestic violence in the world. It is also ranked 1st in the total number of violent hate crimes and 3rd in the total number of crime levels, in the world.
Due to the high level of danger and presence of terrorist organizations, travel is not recommended.
Cross the Salang Pass
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
The Salang Pass connects Kabul and northern Afghanistan. At almost 4000 meters, it is one of the most scenic and adventurous drives in Afghanistan.
Visitors will see views of the Hindu Kush Mountains before entering the Salang Tunnel. The construct which runs through the mountains at 3,400 meters high. It is one of the highest tunnels in the world.
What Should I Take to Afghanistan?
Afghan travel requires those traveling to plan a bit further ahead. Make sure you’re ready for the trip.
- Personal Allergy/Relief Medication – Dust is a constant presence in Afghanistan. Have the necessary medication with you to combat allergies in the Afghanistan climate.
- Chapstick – This is essential to avoid dry or cracked lips while acclimating to the region.
- Lubricating Eye Drops – Again, dust is omnipresent in Afghanistan. Lubricating eye drops could be a life-saver to helping you avoid itchy and irritated eyes.
U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan
The U.S. embassy in Afghanistan is currently not offering any services to travelers due to security concerns following the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the country. Normally, U.S. embassies offer a range of services to U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad.
It’s important to check with the embassy or consulate of the United States in the country you’re visiting to see what help they can provide you.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health Travel Vaccines for Afghanistan
Overall rating: 5 stars – 5 reviews
★★★★★
“Great Experience at Passport“
“I waited to do this review until after I found out if everything was completed that I would need as a contractor in Afghanistan. I was one of a few contractors who had everything complete that needed to be completed. I did not have to worry about anything (other than my BP). You guys did a wonderful job making sure that all of my paperwork was completed correctly with the doctors signature and license number. You also made sure that I had copies of everything that I needed since I had never been overseas before this trip. Thank you very much.”
Submitted by: David
★★★★★
“Exceptionally Professional Provider“
“I have worked with the shop in Fredericksburg for a few years in order for going to Iraq and Afghanistan. Everything is ALWAYS perfect, making all the paperwork for the military without a hiccup. I came this time and found the staff to be as friendly, professional and courteous. Fantastic crew, and I would recommend them to anyone.”
Submitted by: Bruce
★★★★★
“Really helped me with DOD readiness!“
“The team at PH at the Brentwood location were a jovial bunch that worked with me in a professional way to get me ready for an Afghanistan deployment with the Army. All those forms, exams, and labs needed…I had no idea what I was doing with this, and they got me sorted.”
Submitted by: Paul
★★★★★
“Good to see“
“The nurse was very informative. Hand out on Afghanistan’s weather and disease potential was good to read. I didn’t know sunblock is needed with Doxy. Army not very informative about vaccinations. She talked about each one I received and informed me about risks involved with each and why it was necessary to take them. I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to travel overseas.”
Submitted by: Neil
★★★★★
“Outstanding staff and work product“
“I have utilized Passport Health two times now. I have been impressed with their effort and the superior customer service. This time I was on my way to Afghanistan. When I arrived for CRC there were many people who did not have the appropriate paperwork. I walked through without a hitch. ALL of the staff there is more than competent and absolutely professional. Thank you!”
Submitted by: Gary
“I waited to do this review until after I found out if everything was completed that I would need as a contractor in Afghanistan. I was one of a few contractors who had everything complete that needed to be completed. I did not have to worry about anything (other than my BP). You guys did a wonderful job making sure that all of my paperwork was completed correctly with the doctors signature and license number. You also made sure that I had copies of everything that I needed since I had never been overseas before this trip. Thank you very much.”
“I have worked with the shop in Fredericksburg for a few years in order for going to Iraq and Afghanistan. Everything is ALWAYS perfect, making all the paperwork for the military without a hiccup. I came this time and found the staff to be as friendly, professional and courteous. Fantastic crew, and I would recommend them to anyone.”
“The team at PH at the Brentwood location were a jovial bunch that worked with me in a professional way to get me ready for an Afghanistan deployment with the Army. All those forms, exams, and labs needed…I had no idea what I was doing with this, and they got me sorted.”
“The nurse was very informative. Hand out on Afghanistan’s weather and disease potential was good to read. I didn’t know sunblock is needed with Doxy. Army not very informative about vaccinations. She talked about each one I received and informed me about risks involved with each and why it was necessary to take them. I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to travel overseas.”
“I have utilized Passport Health two times now. I have been impressed with their effort and the superior customer service. This time I was on my way to Afghanistan. When I arrived for CRC there were many people who did not have the appropriate paperwork. I walked through without a hitch. ALL of the staff there is more than competent and absolutely professional. Thank you!”
US – English
CA – English
UK – English
Rest of World – English
