Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is just off the coast of Adriatic Sea. Though it may appear that this country is coastal, it’s actually completed landlocked.
The country has many different cultural elements within its borders. These include spicy cuisine, beautiful landscapes, and different forms of art and literature.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Do I Need a Visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
What Is the Climate Like in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
How Safe Is Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Spectacular Sarajevo
What Should I Take to Bosnia and Herzegovina?
U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Do I Need Vaccines for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bosnia and Herzegovina: hepatitis A, polio, tick-borne encephalitis, 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:
- 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. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Limited information is available, but multiple cases have been reported. - 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 Bosnia and Herzegovina |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Limited information is available, but multiple cases have been reported. |
| 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 Bosnia and Herzegovina |
||
| 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
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the CDC.
- Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis, transmitted by infected ticks, poses a risk to individuals in forested areas. Protect yourself by wearing appropriate clothing, using repellents, and getting vaccinated.
- Rabies – Rabies is a lethal disease transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, and vaccination is the key to prevention. Pre-exposure vaccination is advised for individuals at risk, and immediate post-exposure vaccination is crucial if one encounters a potentially rabid animal.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are preventable diseases that require a proactive approach through vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is a powerful tool in stopping the transmission of these viruses. Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks.
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 Bosnia and Herzegovina
Prevent Bug Bites in Bosnia and Herzegovina
If you get bitten by bugs, clean the area, resist scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone or antihistamines to relieve itching. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Safely enjoying meals abroad involves precautions like washing hands, avoiding street food, and consuming well-cooked dishes. Opt for bottled or canned drinks and stay vigilant about seal integrity. Preventing travelers’ diarrhea means maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding raw foods, and selecting reputable eateries.
Infections To Be Aware of in Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is transmitted by ticks and can also spread from person to person through contact with infected bodily fluids. Preventative measures include tick bite prevention, healthcare worker precautions, and research towards a potential vaccine.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
Do I Need a Visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Any individual traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina needs a passport. Your passport must have at least three months validity for entry. A tourist visa is not required for stays under three months.
Bosnia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Bosnia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Bosnia and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina has a Mediterranean climate. But, it can get cooler in the mountainous regions.
The coastal city of Mostar has mild winters. Temperatures are in the 40’s in winter and high-80’s in summer. Mostar is also known for its high annual rainfall average. This area sees 60 inches of rainfall a year.
Sarajevo experiences slightly lower temperature averages throughout the year. Winters can have sub-zero temperatures. Summers are more mild inland than they are on the coast with average temperatures in the 60’s.
How Safe Is Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s crime rate is moderate. But, Sarajevo, experiences significantly more crime than the rest of the country. In the city armed robberies, residential break-ins, vehicle break-ins, and pick-pocketing are common. Avoid wearing backpacks and stay alert at all times especially at night. Do not carry large amounts of money.
Landmines and explosives are still present in some parts of Bosnia. Take extra precautions when traveling in the region.
Soccer is popular in Bosnia. But, fans, both rival and domestic, can become violent because of the outcome of a game. This can result in fights and property damage.
Spectacular Sarajevo
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Sarajevo is a city in Bosnia that is popular with tourists. People visit Sarajevo to learn about its history, culture, and architecture. Visitors can explore the old town, which is a place with narrow streets and shops where they can try traditional food like cevapi and burek.
Sarajevo has many museums, where visitors can learn about the city’s complex past. The city also has a lively arts scene, with concerts and film screenings.
Sarajevo is known for its religious diversity, with mosques, churches, and synagogues located near each other. Visitors can visit these places to learn about the city’s religious heritage. There are also many parks and green spaces in Sarajevo, where visitors can take a walk and enjoy the natural scenery.
One of the best places to see the city from above is Mount Trebevic, which can be reached by cable car. There, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city.
What Should I Take to Bosnia and Herzegovina?
When packing for a trip to Bosnia, it is important to consider the season and activities you have planned.
If you are visiting during the summer, pack lightweight and breathable clothing, while in the winter, warm clothing is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are important for exploring the historical sites and cities. Don’t forget to bring your travel documents like your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary visas.
Bring your phone, charger, and adapters to stay connected and charged while traveling. Pack personal care items like toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. Bring local currency and a credit card for larger purchases.
If you plan to explore Bosnia’s national parks or enjoy outdoor activities, bring appropriate gear such as hiking boots, a rain jacket, and a hat. Don’t forget to pack a reusable water bottle, a travel guide or map, and a camera to capture your memories.
U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina
All Americans visiting Bosnia should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Bosnia, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Sarajevo
1 Robert C. Frasure Street
71000 Sarajevo
Phone: +387 33 704-000
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Bosnia
“I’ve worked with Passport Health every time I travel to Bosnia. They’re helpful, thorough, explains everything well, and very competent. Have ONLY had positive experiences with them, and definitely trust their recommendations and suggestions, especially about which shots to get and which ones I probably don’t need.”
“The nurse was very knowledgeable about the precautions needed for travel to Bosnia and provided excellent advice.”
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