Travel Vaccines and Advice for Italy
Of all the places to go in Europe, Italy is first on the list for many people. Italy’s charm is found in its ancient wonders, cuisine and unique landscapes.
The Coliseum, Florentine markets and volcanic ruins, there is no shortage of history waiting to be explored.
Travel can be done a multitude of ways including local flight options, by ferry for coastal towns and to islands or by train or bus. Some of the hidden treasures of Italy need extra planning. But, they are well worth the time.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Italy?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Italy
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Italy?
What Is the Climate Like in Italy?
How Safe Is Italy?
Is the Food Safe in Italy?
See the Amazing Cinque Terre
What Should I Take to Italy?
U.S. Embassy in Italy
Do I Need Vaccines for Italy?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Italy. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Italy: 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 –
A chikungunya outbreak occurred in 2017. Local transmission is still possible in some regions. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Typically found in alpine areas, especially in the northeast. - 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 Italy |
||
| 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 | A chikungunya outbreak occurred in 2017. Local transmission is still possible in some regions. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Typically found in alpine areas, especially in the northeast. |
| 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 Italy |
||
| 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 an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus, often spread through contaminated food or water, or via direct contact with someone infected. It leads to liver inflammation, potentially impairing its function, and manifests as symptoms like tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. The vaccine for hepatitis A offers robust protection against this virus. It is typically given in two doses over a six-month period and is advised for those traveling to regions with higher risk or for people more likely to come into contact with the virus.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes and can also spread through other means like blood transfusion. To prevent it, use mosquito repellents or wear protective clothing. Vaccination is available and considered the best form of protection.
- 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 – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travelers.
- 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.
As a developed country, Italy does not have many communicable diseases. Make sure you are up-to-date on your routine vaccinations before traveling.
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 Italy
Prevent Bug Bites in Italy
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 Italy
While dining abroad, prioritize food safety by avoiding street food, practicing hand hygiene, and selecting fully cooked dishes. Opt for sealed bottled or canned drinks. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by adhering to hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Altitude Sickness in Italy
Altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headache and nausea stemming from oxygen deprivation at high elevations, can be prevented through gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. Should AMS symptoms arise, immediate descent to lower altitudes, rest and seek medical attention.
Infections To Be Aware of in Italy
- 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 or Passport for Italy?
A visa is not required for travel to Italy. But, your passport must have at least three months’ validity remaining.
Italy Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Italy? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Italy and U.S. State Department
If you plan to stay for 90 days or more, a visa will be required. You must get this visa before starting your trip.
What Is the Climate Like in Italy?
The climate in Italy differs depending on location.
Winters can be brutal in northern areas near the Alps. Summers can be hot in this region as well. Central Italy remains somewhat constant with mild temperatures throughout the year. In southern Italy, temperatures are warm in winter and even warmer in the summer. Regardless of where in Italy, the climate is described as Mediterranean.
- Milan – Nestled in the northern Italy, Milan is bordered by the Alps. Winters are milder than other northern cities, but summers can be hot. The variety in temperature is typical in Northern cities.
- Rome – Sitting in central Italy, Rome experiences a range of seasons. Most of Rome’s rainfall occurs in the winter. Most other areas in Italy that receive the bulk of the rain in the spring and summer.
- Naples – Is one of the largest and most-traveled cities in Southern Italy. Even in the winter months, temperatures will remain mostly above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In the summer months, Naples will catch cool breezes off the ocean.
How Safe Is Italy?
Italy is a beautiful place to visit, but it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you:
- Learn about the places you’ll go, including customs and safety tips.
- Keep your things safe from thieves by using special bags or pouches. Be careful in crowded places.
- Travel with friends or a group, and don’t walk alone at night in dark or empty areas.
- Use safe public transportation, and keep your luggage close on trains.
- Be careful when using ATMs, and don’t let anyone help you.
- Don’t show off expensive items like jewelry or watches.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for scams or distractions.
- Follow local rules and customs to avoid getting in trouble.
- Have emergency contact numbers and tell your family or friends about your travel plans.
- Get travel insurance to protect you in case something goes wrong.
By following these tips, you can have a fun and safe trip to Italy.
Is the Food Safe in Italy?
Italy is notorious for producing some of the most delectable cuisine in the world. Italian culture is centered around meal time. Most devote a lot of time and energy into the preparation and cooking of every meal. With the culinary bar set so high, it is rare that travelers will sit down to a meal is deemed unsafe for consumption. The only thing to remain wary towards is water. Most restaurants will serve water and sodas in the bottle to guarantee high and consistent quality.
See the Amazing Cinque Terre
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Cinque Terre is a beautiful coastal region in Italy that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its name refers to the five colorful fishing villages nestled along the Mediterranean coastline. The villages are connected by hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the sea and the terraced vineyards on the hillsides.
Visitors can spend their days hiking the trails and evenings enjoying delicious seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Other popular activities include boat tours, wine tasting and shopping for local handicrafts. Tourists in Cinque Terre will be captivated by its beauty and charm.
What Should I Take to Italy?
Considering where and when you plan on traveling to Italy and for how long, there are a variety of items that should make it into your suitcase:
- Comfortable walking shoes with arch support
- A shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders. There are many churches and religious areas that require modest clothing before entry
- A purse with a latch of some kind. Theft from purses has been known to happen in large crowded cities
- Light and airy clothing for the humid summer months
- An umbrella or rain proof jacket for the occasional rainstorm
- A hat as the sun can be harsh
- If fine-dining is in your plans, pack “black-tie” attire as some restaurants have dress codes
U.S. Embassy in Italy
There is one embassy and three consulates located throughout Italy in major tourism cities. The embassy and consulates can assist in most matters of travel from lost passports to helping victims of crime. There are many issues that are not considered emergencies and these problems can be solved in a more efficient manner if an appointment is made ahead of time.
U.S. Embassy Rome
Via Vittorio Veneto, 121
00187 Rome, Italy
Telephone: +(39) 06-4674-1
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(39) 06-4674-1
Fax: +(39) 06-4674-2244
Email: uscitizensrome@state.gov
Visit the Embassy to Italy website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Italy
“The nurse gave me a thorough, detailed explanation of the health issues I will face on my trip to Italy. It was a lot to take in, but she was patient, and fortunately I had done some research.”
“Overall a great visit. Came in to see what I needed for my upcoming trip to Italy and she was very informative about the current things going around in India and what to do to take precautionary steps. She was detailed and asked multiple times if I had any questions.”
“My husband and I used the services of this clinic for a trip to Italy. This was a very efficient operation led by an experienced and customer centered professionalism. She had a prepared notebook individualized for us when we arrived which included recommended immunizations . We could not have been more pleased.”
“The experience was excellent. The nurse very knowledgeable. Vaccines delivered relatively painlessly. I was educated on what to expect as side effects of the vaccines. Received a refresher on dos and don’ts in Italy.”
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