Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory that is self-governed. It is an archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean.
The Falkland Islands are most known for their hilly landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Around 3,000 people live in the Falkland Islands, spanning over about 300 miles. The majority of the population are native to the island with British descent.
The main language of the Falkland Islands is English and residents of the Falkland Islands are British Citizens. The largest cities are Stanley, East Falkland and Cape Horn.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the Falkland Islands?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Falkland Islands
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Falkland Islands?
What Is the Climate Like in the Falkland Islands?
How Safe Are the Falkland Islands?
Exploring Biodiversity in the Falkland Islands
What Should I Take to the Falkland Islands?
U.S. Embassy in the Falkland Islands
Do I Need Vaccines for the Falkland Islands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for the Falkland Islands. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Falkland Islands: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, 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. - 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. - 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 the Falkland Islands |
||
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for the Falkland Islands |
||
| 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.
- 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.
- 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 spread through bodily fluids, poses a significant health risk. Safe practices help, but vaccination is the ultimate safeguard. It prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring strong and persistent protection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Only one hospital is on the Falkland Islands. It is located in the city of Stanley. If you are in need of a more complex surgery or procedure, evacuation may be necessary.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Falkland Islands
Prevent Bug Bites in the Falkland Islands
Prevent bug bites by covering up and using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If bitten, wash the bite, resist scratching, and soothe with hydrocortisone or antihistamines. Seek urgent care for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in the Falkland Islands
Stay healthy overseas by favoring cooked and hot dishes, reputable eateries, and practicing good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages and use caution with tap water. Enjoy hot drinks and alcohol responsibly. To steer clear of travelers’ diarrhea, follow these strategies: eat safe foods, drink treated water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be discerning about local cuisine.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Falkland Islands?
Passports are required for entry for U.S. citizens to get into the Falkland Islands, but no visa is required.
Your passport must be valid for the length of your stay in the Falkland Islands.
Falkland Islands Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Falkland Islands? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Government of Falkland Islands and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in the Falkland Islands?
The Falkland Islands are a popular tourist destination with three main places to visit: Stanley, Volunteer Point and Saunders Island.
Stanley is the capital of the Falkland Islands and has mild temperatures throughout the year. The summer months are around 55 degrees, while the winter months are around 35. Rainfall is spread throughout the year.
Volunteer Point is located on the eastern coast of East Falkland Island and is known for its large population of king penguins. The weather here is also mild, with rainfall throughout the year.
Saunders Island is located in the northwest of the Falkland Islands and is generally cooler than other parts of the islands. The summer months are around 50, while the winter months are around 35. It is known for strong winds that can make it difficult to visit by boat.
How Safe Are the Falkland Islands?
The Falkland Islands are a safe place to visit, but there are still things travelers can do to stay safe. Here are some tips:
Don’t carry a lot of money or expensive jewelry with you. Keep your valuables in a safe place.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Wear appropriate clothing and be careful not to offend anyone.
If you plan to explore the outdoors, make sure you have the right gear and clothing, and let someone know where you’re going.
There are a lot of animals in the Falkland Islands, so be careful not to disturb them. Don’t get too close and follow the advice of experts.
Stay up-to-date with local news and ask for help if you have any concerns. By following these tips, travelers can have a safe and enjoyable visit to the Falkland Islands.
Exploring Biodiversity in the Falkland Islands
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The Falkland Islands pride themselves on the preservation of biodiversity.
It’s a great place for respectful nature-lovers to experience rich bird and marine life.
There are many wildlife tours throughout the Falkland Islands. The most popular ones are in the capital city of Stanley.
Other places to explore include Bleaker Island (famous for penguin and cormorant colonies) and Sea Lion Island (famous for sea lions and penguins).
What Should I Take to the Falkland Islands?
The Falkland Islands are a cold and rainy place. It’s important to bring warm and waterproof clothing. You should pack a heavy jacket, wool sweaters, raincoat, waterproof pants and waterproof hiking boots. The sun can still be intense, so don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. You should also bring insect repellent to avoid bug bites.
It’s important to bring a camera to take pictures of the beautiful landscapes and wildlife. You’ll also need a travel adapter because the Falkland Islands use a different kind of plug than some other countries. If you take prescription medicine, don’t forget to bring enough for your trip. You should also bring basic first aid supplies.
It’s a good idea to bring cash, since not all places accept credit cards. A guidebook can help you plan your trip and learn about the culture, history, and attractions of the islands. Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the amazing wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, and whales.
U.S. Embassy in the Falkland Islands
All Americans visiting the Falkland Islands 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.
There is no U.S. embassy in the Falkland Islands, but it is served by the embassy in the United Kingdom.
U.S. Embassy London
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, SW11 7US
United Kingdom
Phone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000
Emergency Phone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000
Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845
Email: SCSLondon@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to the Falkland Islands or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the Falkland Islands
“Called to make an appointment & was told they could actually get me in the same afternoon! Arrived to a smiling receptionist and a friendly professional who provided my treatment for the Falklands. Will definitely call again should I need anything else.”
“On time and very thorough. Nurse was compassionate and explained all vaccinations to a tee!”
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