Travel Vaccines and Advice for Kiribati
Kiribati is a collection of 33 islands with the largest raised coral atoll in the world. It is a country with a rich and unique history and a fantastic variety of water activities.
Kiribati is in the central Pacific Ocean about 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Kiribati?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kiribati
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Kiribati?
What Is the Climate Like in Kiribati?
How Safe Is Kiribati?
Explore the Waters and Islands of Kiribati
What Should I Pack for Kiribati?
U.S. Embassy in Kiribati
Do I Need Vaccines for Kiribati?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Kiribati. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kiribati: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, chikungunya, 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:
- 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. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. - 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 Kiribati |
||
| 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. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. |
| 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 Kiribati |
||
| 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 is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, transmitted via mosquito bites, poses a health threat. Prevention involves mosquito bite avoidance and vaccination against the disease.
- 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 – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travelers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- 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.
Mosquito-borne disease is present on the islands. Dengue can be found in some areas. Protect yourself through use of repellents and netting.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kiribati
Prevent Bug Bites in Kiribati
Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the CDC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Kiribati
Abroad, food safety entails avoiding street vendors, thorough hand-washing, and opting for well-cooked dishes. Choose sealed bottled or canned beverages. To prevent travelers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at reliable restaurants.
Infections To Be Aware of in Kiribati
- Dengue – The CDC describes dengue fever as a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, presenting symptoms such as rash and joint pain. Prevention strategies focus on reducing mosquito exposure and breeding grounds. Treatment is supportive, emphasizing the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
- Zika – The Zika virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses risks such as birth defects and sexual transmission. Preventing Zika involves using repellent, practicing safe sex, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Kiribati?
You do not need a tourist visa to enter Kiribati for stays of up to 30 days. When entering the country you must have enough funds to cover your stay. Proof of onward travel may also be necessary.
Kiribati Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Kiribati? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Kiribati and U.S. State Department
When leaving Kiribati all passengers pay a $20 AUD Airport Embarkation Tax.
What Is the Climate Like in Kiribati?
The climate in Kiribati is tropical with wet and dry seasons, though they vary by location.
In the west (Tarawa), the dry season is from June to October, with October being the driest month. The wet season is from November to April.
In the east (Kiritimati), the wet period is from January to June, with the dry season being from July to December.
The air temperature is connected to the temperature of the surrounding waters. Temperatures change very little between seasons with heat and humidity being rather constant. That said, rainfall varies each year because of El Nino and La Nina.
How Safe Is Kiribati?
Kiribati is a relatively safe destination. Like most other vacation spots, keep watch of your belongings and avoid scams.
Do not drink water unless it is bottled or sterilized. You should also cook vegetables and peel fruit before eating them.
Though Kiribati is in an area of high seismic activity, the government has limited ability to notify of natural disasters. Remember to go to higher ground in the event of such an emergency.
Driving in Kiribati can be dangerous. Drinking and driving is common in Kiribati, especially on weekends. Be very aware of your surroundings and take extra caution. After heavy rain and high tides some road areas can be flooded.
Explore the Waters and Islands of Kiribati
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
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travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Kiribati is a fantastic destination for travelers interested in water activities. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Fishing – Kiribati is well suited for serious anglers. There are bonefish, trevally and blue fin in the waters. Kiritimati Island is recommended for fishing with its hard sand flats perfect for fly fishing.
- Surfing – Many islands have ample opportunities for surfing. Some breaks off of Kiritimati, Tarawa and the Gilberts should only be for experienced surfers. Fanning Island is the best out of the three for surf with consistent swell almost all the year.
- Diving/Snorkeling – Diving and snorkeling adventures are available through accredited dive masters. Make sure you are using an approved provider to avoid any potential mishaps.
What Should I Pack for Kiribati?
Think ahead on what to pack by looking through these suggestions:
- Proper Clothing – Kiribati can often be hot and humid due to its tropical climate and wet season. Be sure to pack for the time of year and the activities you wish to do. Consider items such as sunscreen, water-protective gear, and bathing suits.
- Insect Repellents – With dengue fever in Kiribati, repellents are a must.
- Copies of Travel Documents – In case of lost luggage or theft, having copies of documents is a must.
U.S. Embassy in Kiribati
The U.S. Embassy in Kiribati helps American travelers with various services. These services include getting a new passport or renewing an existing one and helping in emergencies like natural disasters or medical emergencies. The embassy also provides information about visa requirements and cultural norms in Kiribati.
If you need help with legal issues or medical care, the embassy can provide assistance. Additionally, they can help you in case you get arrested or detained.
U.S. Embassy Suva
158 Princes Road
Tamavua, Suva, Fiji
Phone: 679 331-4466
Before traveling to Kiribati, it’s important to visit the embassy’s website or contact them directly to learn more about the services they offer.
The U.S. State Department recommends all travelers register with the free STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for important automatic notifications concerning in-country security and for help in case of an emergency while you’re abroad.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Kiribati
“I was impressed with how informative the person was. She had a packet ready before I got there with all the information I need to know for my trip to Kiribati. She went over every vaccination thoroughly, as well as information about how to be safe. Her demeanor was very positive.”
“My overall experience was …terrific…great information to help in my travel to Kiribati…also helped some anxiety”
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