Travel Vaccines and Advice for France
France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. In 2013 alone, 85.6 million people traveled there to see some of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
If you enjoy keeping things simple, you might decide to spend an afternoon tasting French delicacies from the local cafes. Or if you’re more artistically inclined, strolling through the amazing galleries of the Louvre.
You could set your sights on a daring trek through the French Alps. Or a few flights of stairs running up the Eiffel Tower may be all that stand in the way of you and a stunning photograph.
With nostalgic city streets, historic museums, stunning architecture and endless miles of lush, European countryside, the country offers something spectacular to every traveler who visits.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for France?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in France
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for France?
What Is the Climate Like in France?
How Safe Is France?
Climbing the French Alps
What Should I Take to France?
U.S. Embassy in France
Do I Need Vaccines for France?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for France. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for France: hepatitis A, polio, chikungunya, 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. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Limited cases have been identified in coastal regions. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Present in the Alsace region, with occasional rare cases in other parts of the country. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
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 France |
||
| 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. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Limited cases have been identified in coastal regions. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Present in the Alsace region, with occasional rare cases in other parts of the country. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | 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 France |
||
| 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, a liver infection caused by a contagious virus, can have severe symptoms. To prevent its spread, vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine is essential, along with maintaining hygiene practices. This vaccine effectively protects against infection.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, carried by Aedes mosquitoes, can be prevented by using mosquito repellents and eliminating standing water. Vaccination is recommended fro those traveling to regions effected by the disease.
- Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis, a viral disease, can be prevented by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and receiving the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine. Vaccination plays a crucial role in defending against this potentially severe illness.
- 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 – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread via infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and vaccination. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, offering strong and enduring immunity against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
For trips to most destinations, including France, a vaccine against hepatitis A is recommended. Before traveling, all visitors should have received at least the first vaccine.
France is a fully developed nation. Travelers should take the same precautions they would at home, with an understanding that the food may be different from what they are used to.
If you have any questions about traveling to France 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.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in France
Prevent Bug Bites in France
When bitten by bugs, clean the area with soap and water, refrain from scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies. For severe reactions or tick bites, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Following CDC guidelines can help prevent and manage bug bites effectively.
Food and Water Safety in France
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.
Altitude Sickness in France
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 France
- Leishmaniasis – Infected sand flies are the primary vectors of leishmaniasis. Preventive measures include the use of insect repellents, protective clothing and staying indoors during sand fly peak hours.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can result in birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for France?
American travelers do not need a visa to enter France. But, your passport should be valid for at least three months from the date of your trip. The passport booklet must also have at least one blank page for stamps.
France Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to France? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of France and U.S. State Department
A visa is not required for stays under 90 days. If you intend to stay for a longer period of time, you will need to get a visa before your trip.
What Is the Climate Like in France?
The weather in France varies depending on what region you plan to visit. Temperatures in Normandy, for example, will be very different from the Mediterranean coast. Here is what you can expect in some of France’s most popular destinations:
- Paris – Temperature ranges between 68°F and 79°F from May through October. Temperatures range from 42°F in January to 79°F in August. October is the wettest month, with June and July as the hottest.
- Normandy – The average daytime high during the summer months is 80°F. Winter weather is fairly mild. The weather in the area can be unpredictable. Be sure to research typical weather trends for the specific dates you plan on visiting.
- Grenoble – This city is located in the southeastern region of France and near the French Alps. July is the hottest month with temperatures in the high 60’s. It is in January with temperatures in the 30’s. May is the wettest month.
How Safe Is France?
The U.S. government strongly urges citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance due to recent terrorist attacks. Many groups are still operating in Europe and could pose a threat to both French and U.S. citizens.
That being said, France has made great strides in improving internal security. Travelers should feel as safe in France as they would Canada or the United States.
France has a lower crime rate than the United States. But, precautions should still be taken to avoid pickpockets and other petty crime.
Any time that you are traveling abroad, it is important to be aware of possible safety concerns. But, it is also equally as important that you do not let these occurrences fuel your fear of travel.
Climbing the French Alps
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When travelers think of France, they often imagine a romantic tourist destination with nostalgic city views and endless miles of green vineyards. But, France is also home to Europe’s highest mountains; the French Alps.
Located in the Rhône-Alpes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur regions, the Alps stand at a towering 4,810 meters. The mountain range takes an average of 10-12 hours to hike to the summit and boasts some of the most exquisite, scenic views in Europe.
Mont Blanc, the highest mountain peak in the Alps, has become a popular destination for travelers. If the duration of the hike seems too intense for your taste, there are other alternatives. Tourists can also enjoy a gorgeous view of Mont Blanc by taking a relaxing 20-minute ride up on Europe’s highest cable car on the nearby Aiguille du Midi.
If you’re planning a summer trip, the Alps provide an excellent opportunity for mountain biking and hiking.
If you’re planning a winter vacation, the mountain range serves as an attraction to skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Ski resorts such as Chamonix and Portes de Soleil offer charming housing facilities.
What Should I Take to France?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to France:
- Euros – Before your trip, have some funds converted to Euros. You may need Euros to pay for your transportation fare from the airport to your hotel. The currency exchange shops in the airport do not always offer the best rates.
- French Phrasebook – Although you can survive a trip through France without knowing the language, it’s always better to be prepared. Having access to a few key phrases can make a difference during your trip.
- Traveler Checks – The last thing a traveler wants to deal with is solving issues of lost or stolen money. Traveler checks serve as a safety-net to ensure that you can get your money back.
- Contact Numbers – These numbers are great to have saved in your phone before your trip. It’s better to be prepared for lost credit cards, emergency situations or whatever else may arise.
- Binoculars – Binoculars are the perfect tool to use while walking through historical French churches and landmarks. You can ensure that you will never miss a detail of the extraordinary architecture found throughout Europe.
U.S. Embassy in France
The U.S. embassy in France offers many services to travelers. If you need a replacement passport or help Americans who are traveling or living in France with emergencies.
If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in France, there is a U.S. embassy in Paris.
U.S. Embassy Paris
2 Avenue Gabriel
75008 Paris
France
Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33) (1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero “0” after the automated greeting
Fax: +(33)(1) 42-66-97-83; +(33)(1) 42-61-61-40 (Special Consular Services)
Email: Citizeninfo@state.gov
It’s best to check the embassy’s website or contact them directly for more information. Visit the Embassy to France website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for France
“Needed immunizations for international travel to France. Passport was very easy to make an appointment at a nearby location. Everyone I spoke with was very helpful. I also got a lot of information about the immunizations I needed. Went in for a followup booster recently, and I was out the door in 5 minutes! Very convenient.”
“I went to the Fremont, CA office because I’ll travel to France soon for my wedding. I said I was on a budget but absolutely cannot get sick on this trip, and the nurse gave me very honest information about what was really necessary in my situation and what I could skip to save money without worrying about catching something preventable. We also chatted about the upcoming wedding while doing paperwork and preparing immunizations.”
“Quick, informative, and feel I am protected for my business trip to France.”
“We are headed to France and are happy with our experience with Passport Health. The nurse was attentive and treated us in a personal manner. Down to earth, yet showed to be very knowledgeable and is a registered nurse who understood our health and what exact vaccine to use. We are also looking into overseas travel insurance offered on their website. Will be using Passport again in the future and recommend it to all.”
“I had a 12:30 appointment and was taken in right on time. I left no more than 10 minutes later and am now ready to head to France!”
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