Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bangladesh
Bangladesh is one of Asia’s most culture-rich destinations. The country is characterized by centuries of Hindu, Buddhist and, today, Muslim traditions.
The region has nearly 800 rivers, most of which run the full length of the country and spill out into the Bay of Bengal. Travel by boat is more common than travel by vehicle or any other means.
Bangladesh is relatively traveler-free area which lends to the country’s authenticity. In most cities, the influences of tourism have yet to take hold. This is also partially due to the country’s poverty.
Unfortunately, this beautiful country has seen disease outbreaks terrorist activity. Some of the most recent attacks have involved tourists. Experts advise against travel to Bangladesh unless a trip is mandatory.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Bangladesh?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bangladesh
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Bangladesh
Is a Visa Required for Bangladesh?
What Is the Climate in Bangladesh?
How Safe Is Bangladesh?
See the Wonders of Srimangal
What Should I Take to Bangladesh?
U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh
Do I Need Vaccines for Bangladesh?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bangladesh. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bangladesh: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya, 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 of Bangladesh. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from May to October. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Few cases reported since 2017. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. - 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 Bangladesh |
||
| 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 of Bangladesh. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from May to October. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Few cases reported since 2017. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. |
| 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 Bangladesh |
||
| 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 fever, a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those at risk, along with maintaining good hygiene and food safety.
- Cholera – Cholera is a bacterial disease that typically leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration. It is most often spread through contaminated food or water. The cholera vaccine given orally and provides the best protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a viral brain infection transmitted by mosquitoes, prevalent in rural parts of Asia. It can cause neurological symptoms and be life-threatening. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine, administered through injections, effectively protects against the virus, especially recommended for travelers to endemic areas.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted through animal bites, affecting the nervous system. The rabies vaccine, given before or after potential exposure, prevents the virus from developing into active disease. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups like travelers, while post-exposure shots are crucial after suspected rabies exposure.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travelers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that spread easily. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the CDC’s top recommendation for preventing these diseases. It offers comprehensive protection against all three viruses, ensuring the safety of both individuals and the community.
Malaria in Bangladesh
Malaria is widespread in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong Hill and Cox’s Bazar. Travelers are advised to take antimalarials to protect themselves from infection. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are recommended for travelers to the region. Malaria parasites in Bangladesh are resistant to chloroquine. Speak with your travel health specialist to identify which antimalarial is best for your trip and medical history.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bangladesh
Prevent Bug Bites in Bangladesh
Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the CDC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Bangladesh
When abroad, ensure food safety by avoiding street vendors, practicing hand hygiene, and opting for thoroughly cooked dishes. Choose bottled or canned drinks with intact seals. To prevent travelers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at trustworthy restaurants.
Infections To Be Aware of in Bangladesh
- Avian/Bird Flu – Preventing avian flu requires a multifaceted approach, including poultry vaccination, rigorous biosecurity practices, safe handling and cooking of poultry products, early outbreak detection, and educating the public about the virus’s risks and prevention methods.
- Dengue – According to the CDC, dengue fever, caused by a virus from mosquito bites, manifests through fever, headaches, and severe muscle pain. Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While no specific treatment exists, early medical intervention can mitigate severe complications.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease carried by sand flies, poses a substantial health risk. Effective prevention includes protective measures like using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during sand fly peak hours.
- Zika – Zika virus, transmitted mainly by Aedes mosquitoes, can have serious consequences, especially for pregnant women and their babies. To prevent Zika, individuals should protect themselves from mosquito bites, practice safe sex, and eliminate breeding sites.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Bangladesh
- Nipah Virus – Nipah outbreaks occur regularly in various parts of Southeast Asia. The WHO recommends travelers to Bangladesh take extra precautions at this time. Nipah most often spreads from fruit bats or pigs to humans and then between humans. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can include fever, vomiting, disorientation, seizures and coma. Travelers are advised to wash hands regularly, avoid contact with bats and pigs and avoid food that may have come in contact with bats or pigs.
Is a Visa Required for Bangladesh?
Bangladesh requires all visitors have at least six months’ validity remaining on their passports at entry. One blank passport page is also required. Visas are required for entry to Bangladesh, but are available upon arrival.
Bangladesh Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Bangladesh? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Bangladesh and U.S. State Department
The U.S. State Department strongly recommends travelers get their visas prior to arrival to avoid any potential issues. There are penalties for overstaying a visa and even prosecution in some cases.
Travelers may also be required to pay a departure tax, but this tax is often included in the price of airfare.
What Is the Climate in Bangladesh?
Although the rivers are beneficial for travel, they also bring humidity. The country has a subtropical monsoon climate with high temperatures and high humidity. Bangladesh has three prominent seasons: hot, humid summers, a rainy fall and cooler, dry winters.
Because climate varies by region, be sure to pack for your itinerary. A few regional differences include:
- Khulna – At the southwest end of the country near the Sundarbans, Khulna has hot summers, cool winters and year-round off and on rainfall.
- Dhaka – In the middle of the country, the capital has a tropical wet climate and harshly-dry winters.
- Rangpur – At the northern tip of the country, this region has the most rainfall. Expect consistent monsoons and high levels of humidity.
How Safe Is Bangladesh?
Here are some tips that can help you stay safe while traveling to Bangladesh:
Research and plan ahead: Research the places you plan to visit in Bangladesh. Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and social norms. This can help you avoid any cultural misunderstandings and potential safety risks.
Dress conservatively: Bangladesh is a conservative country in many ways. It’s important to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing. This is especially important for women. They should consider covering their heads and wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover arms and legs.
Use reputable transportation: Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to get around, especially at night. Avoid unlicensed taxis or rickshaws, as they may not be safe or reliable.
Be cautious with food and water: Be careful with food and water consumption to avoid getting sick. Stick to bottled or filtered water and avoid eating street food or raw or undercooked food.
Be aware of pickpockets and thieves: Pickpockets and thieves can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you.
Register with your embassy: Register with your embassy or consulate when you arrive in Bangladesh. This can help ensure that you receive important safety updates and that your government can provide assistance if needed.
See the Wonders of Srimangal
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
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threat throughout the world.
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Passport Health’s repellent options!
Srimangal is a small town located in the northeastern part of Bangladesh. It is known as the tea capital of the country. There are several reasons why tourists would want to visit Srimangal:
- Tea Gardens: Srimangal is surrounded by lush green tea gardens and is one of the largest tea producing regions in Bangladesh. Tourists can visit these tea gardens and witness the entire tea production process.
- Natural Beauty: Tourists can visit Madhabpur Lake, Baikka Beel Wetland Sanctuary, and Lawachara National Park to explore the region’s natural beauty and wildlife.
- Cultural Experience: Srimangal is also known for its unique cultural experiences. Tourists can visit the Khashia tribal village and learn about their lifestyle, culture, and traditions. They can also visit the nearby Monipuri villages to see traditional handloom weaving and embroidery.
Srimangal is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to explore a lesser-known region of Bangladesh.
What Should I Take to Bangladesh?
Unless traveling in winter, tourists should prepare for rain and humidity. Be sure you have everything you need for your trip.
- Clothing – A light sweater for cooler nights plus long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquitoes. Modest clothing is recommended for visits to religious sites.
- Rain Gear – A poncho or rain jacket that is lightweight and can be packed on day excursions.
- Insect Repellent or Netting – Mosquito-borne diseases are common in southeast Asia. Be sure to bring repellents, netting and similar items.
U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh
The U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh offers a range of services to U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Bangladesh. Some of the services that the embassy provides include:
- Consular Services: This includes emergency assistance, notary services, and passport and visa services.
- Security Alerts: The embassy issues security alerts to U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Bangladesh. These alerts provide information on current security situations and potential risks.
- Travel Information: The embassy provides information on travel and tourism in Bangladesh, including visa requirements, local customs and culture and transportation options.
The U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh is located at:
U.S. Embassy Dhaka
Madani Avenue,
Baridhara, Dhaka -1212,
Bangladesh
Tel: (880) (2) 5566-2000
It’s important to note that the services provided by the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh can vary. U.S. citizens traveling to Bangladesh are encouraged to check the embassy’s website or contact the embassy directly to obtain the most up-to-date information.
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Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Bangladesh
“I got six shots for an upcoming trip to Bangladesh and India; the process was quick and as painless as I’ve ever experienced. Thanks!”
“I was able to get a review of my shots, receive additional ones as needed, and request prescriptions for my business trip to Bangladesh. It was quick and easy with no issues.”
“In preparation for my trip to Bangladesh in a week, I came to Passport Health and saw a nurse. She was efficient, professional, and very thorough. She also had a great bedside manner, which is critical for any nurse. I will definitely come back to Passport Health for my next travel vaccination needs.”
“As I prepared for a an upcoming trip to Bangladesh, i had found information on health in foreign locations through the CDC, but Janet at Passport Health really took the time to explain the risk factors and how i can mitigate the risks (through my own actions and decisions while abroad and through preventive medicines and vaccinations). I have been able to use clinics at my place of work before, but will look to Passport Health in the future to coordinate my health on overseas trips.”
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