Travel Vaccines and Advice for North Macedonia
North Macedonia is a landlocked country located on the shaft of the Balkan peninsula. This young country borders Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, and Albania.
Tourists are drawn to North Macedonia for many reasons. This includes the country’s many ancient religious constructions. Entertainment is integral to the culture of North Macedonia. It’s film making history dates back 100 years and art even longer.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for North Macedonia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in North Macedonia
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for North Macedonia?
What Is the Climate Like in North Macedonia?
How Safe Is North Macedonia?
Ohrid Boardwalk
What Should I Take to North Macedonia?
U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia
Do I Need Vaccines for North Macedonia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for North Macedonia. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for North Macedonia: 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 –
High 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 North Macedonia |
||
| 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 | High 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 North Macedonia |
||
| 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.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects mammals and spreads through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Preventing rabies involves vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals, and seeking immediate medical attention if exposed. The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventive measure that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- 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 are infectious diseases that can lead to severe health issues. They are transmitted through respiratory droplets and close contact. The MMR vaccine, a safe and effective immunization, is recommended by the CDC as the best way to prevent these diseases.
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 North Macedonia
Prevent Bug Bites in North Macedonia
To fend off bug bites, follow CDC advice: cover up with long clothing, use repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and avoid bug-heavy areas during dawn and dusk. Protect your sleep with insect-repellent-treated bed nets.
Food and Water Safety in North Macedonia
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options. A travelers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Altitude Sickness in North Macedonia
At high altitudes, altitude sickness can strike, causing symptoms like headaches and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms develop, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest, and medical evaluation if necessary are crucial for recovery and safety.
Infections To Be Aware of in North Macedonia
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease carried by sand flies, poses a substantial health risk. Effective prevention includes protective measures like using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during sand fly peak hours.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for North Macedonia?
A visa is not needed for stays under 90 days. Your passport must have at least six months validity.
North Macedonia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to North Macedonia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of North Macedonia and U.S. State Department
All foreign citizens must register with local police within 48 hours of arrival. If you are staying in a hotel while in North Macedonia, the hotel will register you upon check-in.
What Is the Climate Like in North Macedonia?
North Macedonia has a continental climate with warm dry summers and cool winters. The large mountain ranges that inhabit North Macedonia and the surrounding areas keep the temperatures cool.
The summer months in North Macedonia are in the 70’s. The winter months are generally in the 30’s.
You should expect a fair amount of rain during the months of April and May and snow during the months of November and December. Heavy thunderstorms are also common and likely during the warmest of summer days. However, you should be prepared for precipitation no matter what time of the year you travel here. It can and does rain and/or snow during every month of the year in North Macedonia.
How Safe Is North Macedonia?
North Macedonia is generally a safe place for travelers. To stay safe, follow these tips:
- Learn about the local customs, culture, and politics before your trip.
- Keep your passport and important documents safe. Make copies or store digital versions.
- Watch local news and weather updates.
- Get travel insurance and check with your doctor for vaccinations and medications.
- Be careful with money. Use ATMs in safe areas and watch out for pickpockets in crowded places.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Share your travel plans with friends or family. Keep a working phone with you.
- Use registered taxis or well-known ride-sharing services. Be careful on public transportation.
- Follow the laws of North Macedonia and avoid illegal activities.
- Know the local emergency phone numbers. The general emergency number is 112, and the police number is 192.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and fun trip to North Macedonia.
Ohrid Boardwalk
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
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Ohrid is a town in North Macedonia that many tourists visit. It’s known for being on a beautiful lake and having lots of old churches and monasteries. These places are very old and special, and were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking, or go to cultural events like the Ohrid Summer Festival. The town has a lot of delicious food to try, too, like Turlitava, Trpeza, and Pindzur.
The lake is pretty and clear, and you can take a boat tour, swim or sunbathe on the beaches, or go fishing. If you like nature, you can visit Galicica National Park, which is nearby. Ohrid is a nice and relaxing place that has a little bit of everything for tourists to enjoy.
What Should I Take to North Macedonia?
When packing for North Macedonia, think about the season, how long you’ll stay, and what you’ll do. Here’s a list of things to bring:
Clothes:
- Light clothes for hot days (shorts, t-shirts)
- Warm clothes for cold days (sweaters, long-sleeve shirts)
- A waterproof jacket for rain and cool nights
- Comfy shoes for walking
- Socks, underwear, and sleepwear
- Swimsuit for swimming
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from the sun
- Scarf or shawl for girls, especially at religious places
Personal stuff:
- Passport, visa, and travel insurance
- Medicine and first-aid kit
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
- Bug spray
Electronics:
- Phone, charger, and extra battery
- Plug adapter for North Macedonia
- Camera and headphones
Travel papers:
- Itinerary, hotel info, and tour tickets
- Guidebook, map, and language book
- Emergency contact info
Extra things:
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks and travel pillow
- Small bag for daily trips
- Money belt or hidden pouch
- Umbrella
Check the weather before you go, and change this list based on your needs.
U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia
All Americans visiting North Macedonia 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.
Once in North Macedonia, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Skopje
Str. “Samoilova” Nr.21
1000 Skopje
Republic of North Macedonia
Phone: +389 2 310-2000
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for North Macedonia
Overall rating: 4.5 stars – 2 reviews
★★★★★
“Expert Help“
“This was our first time using Passport Health for our travel needs. We were pleasantly surprised by the efficiency and expert help we received as we planned our mission trip to Macedonia. I would recommend Passport Health to anyone planning a trip out of the country.”
Submitted by: Lisa
★★★★
“First time visit“
“This is the first time I am using passport health for I am going to Macedonia in April. I got good information about what I will need in the the way of injections, etc. to help make my trip a pleasant experience. Being healthy and protected while traveling in areas that are new to me is important. It was a good experience.”
Submitted by: Kathy
“This was our first time using Passport Health for our travel needs. We were pleasantly surprised by the efficiency and expert help we received as we planned our mission trip to Macedonia. I would recommend Passport Health to anyone planning a trip out of the country.”
“This is the first time I am using passport health for I am going to Macedonia in April. I got good information about what I will need in the the way of injections, etc. to help make my trip a pleasant experience. Being healthy and protected while traveling in areas that are new to me is important. It was a good experience.”
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