Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bulgaria
Bulgaria is in the southeastern sector of Europe. This region has been inhabited since ancient times by many groups including Greeks, Romans and Goths.
Tourists travel to Bulgaria for a variety of reasons. Bulgaria is home to nine historical and natural objects that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Travelers also enjoy the rich cuisines that come from Turkish and Greek inspiration.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Bulgaria?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Bulgaria?
Do I Need a Visa for Bulgaria?
What is the Climate in Bulgaria?
How Safe Is Bulgaria?
Relaxing in Plovdiv
What Should I Take to Bulgaria?
U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria
Do I Need Vaccines for Bulgaria?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bulgaria. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bulgaria: 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 number of cases, many are likely undiagnosed. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate 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 Bulgaria |
||
| 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 number of cases, many are likely undiagnosed. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate 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 Bulgaria |
||
| 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 – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral illness that spreads through tick bites in forested areas. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, alongside protective clothing and insect repellents, to safeguard against TBE and its neurological effects.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- 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.
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 Bulgaria
Prevent Bug Bites in Bulgaria
Keep bugs at bay by dressing smartly and applying EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or OLE. In case of a bug bite, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and find relief with readily available remedies. If symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Food and Water Safety in Bulgaria
When traveling, ensure food safety by adhering to CDC recommendations, which include eating fully cooked foods, avoiding raw seafood, and selecting reputable dining places. Safely drink bottled beverages, avoiding ice in uncertain water sources, and consume alcohol in moderation. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary areas.
Altitude Sickness in Bulgaria
At high altitudes, altitude sickness can strike, manifesting as headaches, dizziness, and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms develop, immediate descent to lower altitudes is essential, along with rest and medical evaluation if symptoms persist.
Infections To Be Aware of in Bulgaria
- Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, a virus that affects birds and can transmit to humans, can be prevented through vaccination of poultry, strict biosecurity, safe poultry handling and cooking, outbreak surveillance, and public awareness campaigns highlighting preventive measures.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is a tick-borne disease that can be transmitted between humans through bodily fluids. Preventive strategies comprise tick avoidance, healthcare worker safety measures, and research efforts towards a vaccine to halt its transmission.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand fly bites, can be prevented by adopting protective measures such as using insect repellents, covering exposed skin, and staying indoors when sand flies are active.
Do I Need a Visa for Bulgaria?
A visa is not required for Bulgaria if staying for less than 90 days. Passports must have at least six months validity remaining at entry.
Bulgaria Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Bulgaria? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Bulgaria and U.S. State Department
What is the Climate in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria’s climate is continental with long, cold winters and warm summers. The country is made up of two plains with the Balkan Mountains extending from east to west between them. The northern plain sees temperatures in the 30’s in January and 70’s in July. The southern plain has temperatures in the 30’s for January to 70’s for July.
Bulgaria borders the Black Sea. Its coastal area is milder and influenced by sea breezes. Summers on the coast can be hot with temperatures reaching the 80’s in July and August.
The Balkan Mountains offer quite a contrast to that of the Black Sea coast. Temperatures remain low in the mountains year-round. Skiing is possible through late-March in the mountainous towns of Borovets and Pamporovo.
How Safe Is Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is generally a safe country for travelers, but it is important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.
Keep your valuables safe by using a hotel safe or a money belt. Use reputable transportation, like official taxis or public transportation. Watch out for scams and people trying to trick you. Respect the local customs and laws.
Always be careful when using ATMs, especially at night. Try to avoid political demonstrations, as they can sometimes become violent.
By being aware of these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Bulgaria.
Relaxing in Plovdiv
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Plovdiv is a city in Bulgaria that many tourists visit.
Plovdiv has many museums where people can see things from the past, and there are places where local artists show their work. In a trendy part of the city called Kapana, there are lots of cafes and art spaces where people can hang out.
If people want to go outside, they can go on day trips to see the nearby mountains and fields. Plovdiv is a good mix of things from a long time ago and new things to do.
What Should I Take to Bulgaria?
If you’re going to Bulgaria, you should pack clothes that match the season, comfortable shoes, an adapter for electronic devices, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
You may want to bring a travel guidebook or use a travel app, cash and credit cards, medications, a camera, and important documents like your passport and travel insurance. Bulgaria is a beautiful country, and you’ll want to take pictures to remember it.
It’s also a good idea to bring any medicine you need and over-the-counter medicine like pain relievers or allergy medicine. Make sure you have all the important documents you need, like your passport and travel visa, if you need one.
Some parts of Bulgaria might not take credit cards, so it’s a good idea to have some cash with you.
U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria
All Americans visiting Bulgaria 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 Bulgaria, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Sofia
16, Kozyak Street
Sofia 1408, Bulgaria
Phone: +359 2 937 5100
Due to COVID-19, some services may not be available. To find out what services are available, you can check the embassy’s website or contact them directly.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Bulgaria
Overall rating: 5 stars – 3 reviews
★★★★★
“Very Informative“
“Smooth process. Very helpful in prepping for my business trip to Bulgaria. I thought it was just going to be shots – but it was a full educational experience. I actually learned a lot and it likely kept me in good health for the duration.”
Submitted by: Glen
★★★★★
“Great Clinic“
“The Passport Health Health quick and easy to understand process was a great help it obtaining the information and proper protection for my visit to Bulgaria. I have since returned happy and healthy”
Submitted by: Doug
★★★★★
“Extremely Knowledgeable“
“Very glad that I visited Passport Health, the nurse was able to answer all of my questions and was very knowledgeable about my vaccines and health concerns regarding my planned trip to Bulgaria. I could have saved myself a lot of worrying if I had gone to the clinic sooner! The experience was much better than I had anticipated.”
Submitted by: Colleen
“Smooth process. Very helpful in prepping for my business trip to Bulgaria. I thought it was just going to be shots – but it was a full educational experience. I actually learned a lot and it likely kept me in good health for the duration.”
“The Passport Health Health quick and easy to understand process was a great help it obtaining the information and proper protection for my visit to Bulgaria. I have since returned happy and healthy”
“Very glad that I visited Passport Health, the nurse was able to answer all of my questions and was very knowledgeable about my vaccines and health concerns regarding my planned trip to Bulgaria. I could have saved myself a lot of worrying if I had gone to the clinic sooner! The experience was much better than I had anticipated.”
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