Travel Vaccines and Advice for Hawaii
Hawaii, “the Aloha State”, is known for being a perfect vacation spot.
Because of its unique geography, Hawaii has something for everyone. Most of its main lands are arid, semi-arid, or tropical, while its mountainous areas have an Alpine climate.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Hawaii?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Hawaii
What Is the Climate Like in Hawaii?
How Safe Is Hawaii?
Explore the “Jurassic” Island of Kauai
What Should I Pack for Hawaii?
Do I Need Vaccines for Hawaii?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Hawaii. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Hawaii: hepatitis A, polio, 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. - 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 Hawaii |
||
| 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. |
| 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 Hawaii |
||
| 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.
- 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 is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth. It can become chronic, leading to liver failure or cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine, given as a series of injections, effectively prevents this infection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
Dengue outbreaks do occur in Hawaii. Mosquito repellent is recommended for a trip to the islands.
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 Hawaii
Prevent Bug Bites in Hawaii
To ward off bug bites, follow CDC advice: wear long clothing, use screens, and remove standing water. Opt for EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE for protection. If bitten, wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies. Seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Hawaii
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to CDC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Altitude Sickness in Hawaii
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when oxygen levels decrease at high elevations, leading to symptoms like headaches and nausea. Prevent AMS by ascending slowly, staying hydrated, and considering medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms persist or worsen, descend to lower altitudes and seek medical attention if needed.
What Is the Climate Like in Hawaii?
Hawaii has a stable tropical climate all year round.
The state has two main seasons, kau, which is the warm season, and ho’olio, which is the cooler season. The warm season is from May to October while the cooler season is from November to April. The cooler season is not usually actually cold. When the sun is lower in the South, there are more winds, and it is more likely to have rain and clouds.
June, July, and August are the driest months for the islands. Winter does get more rain and cloud cover. But, they are still quite intermittent and sunshine is frequent.
Average highs for Hawaii are in the high-80’s during summer low-80’s in winter. Temperatures rarely enter the 90’s or drop below the 70’s.
How Safe Is Hawaii?
Hawaii is a beautiful travel destination, but it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Check the weather forecast regularly so you can avoid dangerous situations.
- Only swim in areas with lifeguards and follow their instructions.
- Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance from animals like sea turtles, monk seals and whales.
- If you’re driving, be careful on the roads and follow traffic laws.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
By taking these steps, you can have a fun and safe trip to Hawaii.
Explore the “Jurassic” Island of Kauai
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
If you’re a fan of nature and of dinosaur movies, touring and exploring Hawaii’s beautiful island of Kauai may be a memorable experience.
The island served as “Isla Nublar” and many other locations in scenes for several of Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic series. With a little research, fans can enjoy visiting some of the many unique spots used. Some highlights include the Na Pali Coast and the Limahuli Garden. Certain spots can be seen by tour, while others can be experienced through a variety of ways such as hiking or a helicopter ride.
Even if you’re not a fan of the movie series, Kauai is absolutely still worth a visit. Visitors can experience helicopter tours, sailing, snorkeling, Zodiac tours, hiking, and more.
What Should I Pack for Hawaii?
If you’re going to Hawaii, there are a few things you should make sure to pack. Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun. You should also bring some swimsuits because you’ll want to go to the beach. It’s hot in Hawaii, so pack lightweight clothes that are easy to breathe in. You’ll also want comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.
A water-resistant bag is a good idea for all the water activities you’ll be doing, and insect repellent will help keep the bugs away. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, and a camera to take pictures of the beautiful scenery.
If you need any medication, bring that too, and be sure to have a positive attitude and open mind to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health Travel Vaccines for Hawaii
“We feel ready for our trip. They did a great job preparing for our daughter’s health needs in Hawaii!”
“The nurse was excellent and very professional, as she explained in detail my travel portfolio that was prepared for me on my upcoming trip to Hawaii.”
“I had a very nice experience at Passport Health. I didn’t know what I needed to do to prepare for my trip to Hawaii, but Passport Health helped me figure it all out.”
“The nurse was fantastic. She explained thoroughly which immunizations we may need for Hawaii but wasn’t pushy . My daughter is afraid of shots, and she was incredibly patient and kind with her. Liana now wants to get all her shots from here!”
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