Travel Vaccines and Advice for Sweden
Sweden is bordered by Norway and Finland, and connected to Denmark via a bridge-tunnel. It is a marvelous place to visit for those who are interested in history. This includes walled medieval cities and Viking ruins to explore.
The beauty of Sweden is worth the trip. There are gorgeous lakes, streams, mountains, and hills to hike and camp through. For those visiting the cities, they will find tons of delicious restaurants and shops.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Sweden?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Sweden
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Sweden?
What Is the Climate Like in Sweden?
How Safe Is Sweden?
Malmö
What Should I Take to Sweden?
U.S. Embassy to Sweden
Do I Need Vaccines for Sweden?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Sweden. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Sweden: hepatitis A, polio, tick-borne encephalitis, 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. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Present in the regions around Stockholm and throughout the country. Cases occur mainly around lakes. - 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 Sweden |
||
| 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. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Present in the regions around Stockholm and throughout the country. Cases occur mainly around lakes. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Sweden |
||
| 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 – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis virus is primarily transmitted by ticks and can cause neurological symptoms. Vaccination is essential for those living in or traveling to endemic regions, offering protection against the disease in addition to other preventive strategies like tick avoidance.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that spread easily. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the CDC’s top recommendation for preventing these diseases. It offers comprehensive protection against all three viruses, ensuring the safety of both individuals and the community.
Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Some European countries have experienced outbreaks in recent years.
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 Sweden
Prevent Bug Bites in Sweden
Guard against bug bites by wearing appropriate clothing and applying repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. When bitten, clean the area, resist scratching, and relieve itching with over-the-counter solutions. In severe cases, promptly seek medical assistance.
Food and Water Safety in Sweden
Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water, and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Sweden?
A passport with at least three months validity is required to enter Sweden. A visa is not required for trips less than 90 days.
Sweden Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Sweden? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Sweden and U.S. State Department
Travelers must show proof of funds for the duration of their stay, as well as a return airline ticket.
What Is the Climate Like in Sweden?
Sweden has many popular tourist destinations, and each one has its own climate and weather patterns. In Stockholm, the capital city, winters are cold and snowy, and summers are mild. Gothenburg, the second-largest city, has mild winters and pleasant summers. Malmö, located in southern Sweden, also has mild winters and pleasant summers. Kiruna, in the far north of Sweden, has long and cold winters, and short but mild summers.
It’s essential to note that Sweden’s weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Knowing the weather can help you pack the appropriate clothing and prepare for any weather conditions you may encounter.
How Safe Is Sweden?
Sweden is a generally safe country, but there are still things you can do to make sure you stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Pay attention to what’s going on around you, especially in busy areas.
- Use your common sense, like not walking alone in quiet places and not showing off expensive things.
- Keep an eye on your stuff so nobody can steal it.
- Make sure your phone is charged and let someone back home know where you are.
- Respect the local laws and rules, especially when it comes to alcohol and drugs.
- Be ready for the weather, especially in the winter when it can be slippery and dangerous.
- Check reliable sources of information, like the Swedish government or your embassy, to know what’s going on.
By following these tips, you can have a fun and safe trip to Sweden!
Malmö
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Malmö is a city in Sweden that many tourists like to visit. It has a mix of cultures, so visitors can try different foods and go to events that show off Sweden’s diversity.
Malmö has modern buildings, like the Turning Torso, which is tall and you can go on a tour to see it. There are also pretty beaches and parks where you can have a picnic or go for a walk.
Malmö has lots of museums and galleries too, like the Art Museum and the Technology and Maritime Museum. When you’re done with all the sightseeing, you can go shopping for cool things to take home or have fun at the many bars and clubs that are open late.
Malmö is a great place to go if you want to have a good time.
What Should I Take to Sweden?
When traveling to Sweden, it’s important to pack appropriately for the climate. Sweden can be chilly, even in the summer, so warm clothes like sweaters, jackets, and hats are a must. Comfortable shoes are also important for walking around the cities and countryside. Sweden can be rainy, so pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
Bring a power adapter if your plugs are different from Sweden’s European standard two-pronged plug. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture memories of your trip! Sweden has many beautiful sights. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases.
If you’re traveling to Sweden in the summer, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit to enjoy the lakes and beaches. Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem, so bring insect repellent. Make sure to bring your passport or ID card, travel insurance, and any other necessary travel documents.
If you plan to use your phone or other electronics, bring a portable charger to keep them charged throughout your trip.
U.S. Embassy to Sweden
When traveling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the U.S. embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
The U.S. embassy in Sweden helps American travelers in several ways. They can help renew or replace a passport and help in emergencies like medical or legal problems.
U.S. Embassy Stockholm
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31
SE-115 89 Stockholm
Phone: 08-783 53 00
To make use of consular services, it’s a good idea to check the embassy’s website or contact them directly.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Sweden
Overall rating: 5 stars – 3 reviews
★★★★★
“So Knowledgeable!“
“I really appreciated the vast knowledge of the nurse helping us. She made it quick and painless but I left feeling like she prepared me for anything I could come across in Sweden. Great experience!”
Submitted by: Caitlin
★★★★★
“Excellent experience“
“The nurse administered my immunizations for an upcoming trip to Sweden, she is professional, personable, and extremely accountable. Highly recommend.”
Submitted by: James
★★★★★
“Pre-travel consultation“
“They were a profession crew who discussed pending trip to Sweden. They shared lots of good data and had great advice on keeping safe and healthy.”
Submitted by: Jim
“I really appreciated the vast knowledge of the nurse helping us. She made it quick and painless but I left feeling like she prepared me for anything I could come across in Sweden. Great experience!”
“The nurse administered my immunizations for an upcoming trip to Sweden, she is professional, personable, and extremely accountable. Highly recommend.”
“They were a profession crew who discussed pending trip to Sweden. They shared lots of good data and had great advice on keeping safe and healthy.”
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