Travel Vaccines and Advice for Taiwan
A small island off the coast of China, Taiwan is a destination known for its tropical temperatures and gorgeous landscapes. It boasts cultural attractions in its many beautiful cities as well as many stunning views in its many forests and national parks. This small but versatile island has something to offer to every type of traveler.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Taiwan
Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan?
What Is the Climate Like in Taiwan?
How Safe Is Taiwan?
Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port
What Should I Pack for Taiwan?
U.S. Embassy in Taiwan
Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Taiwan. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Taiwan: hepatitis A, polio, Japanese encephalitis, 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:
- 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. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Most common May to October, throughout island. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Few cases reported since 2019. 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 Taiwan |
||
| 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. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Most common May to October, throughout island. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Few cases reported since 2019. 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 Taiwan |
||
| 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 spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, affecting the nervous system. Prevention strategies include mosquito control, protective clothing, and vaccination, with vaccines available in two forms: inactivated and live attenuated.
- 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.
- 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 – The hepatitis B virus leads to liver infection through contact with infected fluids. The most effective safeguard is the hepatitis B vaccine, administered in a series of shots that stimulate the body to produce antibodies, providing long-term immunity. It is crucial for infants and those at an increased risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Taiwan is free of rabies in dogs, but wild animal rabies (like in bats) is still present. Rabies vaccination is recommended if working directly with wildlife in Taiwan.
Dengue and chikungunya are both present in Taiwan. The mosquito-borne infections pose a threat to travelers of all kinds. Make sure you bring repellent and netting for your trip.
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 Taiwan
Prevent Bug Bites in Taiwan
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 Taiwan
When traveling, prioritize food safety with CDC’s advice: consume fully cooked foods, avoid raw seafood, and pick clean eateries. Opt for bottled drinks, exercise caution with ice, and practice responsible alcohol consumption. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary conditions.
Altitude Sickness in Taiwan
Avoid altitude sickness by gradually ascending to high elevations, allowing your body to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and consider medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms such as headaches or dizziness occur, descend promptly to lower altitudes and seek medical assistance if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Taiwan
- Avian/Bird Flu – Preventing avian flu requires a multifaceted approach, including poultry vaccination, rigorous biosecurity practices, safe handling and cooking of poultry products, early outbreak detection, and educating the public about the virus’s risks and prevention methods.
- 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.
Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan?
No, American citizens do not need a visa for Taiwan, provided you plan on staying for less than 90 days. You will need a passport that has one blank page and is valid up until the end of your stay. Proof of a return ticket or ticket for onward travel may be required.
Taiwan Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Taiwan? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Taiwan and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Taiwan?
Taiwan’s climate varies between subtropical and tropical. But, the whole country is likely to have high temperatures and a humid climate for much of the year. Summers can be excessively hot and humid, with heavy rainfall and even typhoons. November to April has milder weather and milder temperatures. This is the most popular time for tourism.
- Taipei – In the capital city of Taipei, located in the northeast, rain is a common occurrence. Even in the winter months Taipei often receives abundant rainfall. In winter, the temperatures usually will not dip below the low-50’s. Summer temps can be in the low-90’s.
- Tainan – A city located in the south of the island, Tainan experiences temperatures like Taipei. But, Tainan receives much less rainfall outside of monsoon season. This means that its winters and springs are much drier.
- Yushan – The city of Yushan is located in central Taiwan, in the mountains. Due to the altitude, Yushan has much colder temperatures than sea-level tropical cities. Temperatures often dip below freezing in the winters. Summers rarely reach higher than the 60’s.
How Safe Is Taiwan?
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Taiwan is a safe country with low crime rates and good healthcare, but travelers should still take some precautions to stay safe. It’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions and carry identification and emergency contact information. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and use caution when crossing the street.
Taiwan can be hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. In the rainy season, be prepared with rain gear and be aware of the risk of flooding and landslides in some areas.
Public transportation is a safe and convenient way to get around, especially in urban areas. Be careful of scams and pick pocketing, and always be cautious when exchanging money or purchasing items from street vendors or markets.
Stay informed by keeping up with the latest news and travel advisories, and register with your embassy or consulate in case of an emergency.
Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port
Most visitors will visit Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. But few travel out to Kaohsiung, a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of the island. Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s largest port city, and it offers all the attractions of a busy, bustling city with cultural and historical jewels.
Some of the most well-known attractions in Kaohsiung are the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The largest Confucian temple in Taiwan is also nearby.
If you want to experience the natural beauty of Taiwan, only an hour and a half drive from Kaohsiung is the Maolin National Scenic Area. This region has stunning forests, gorges, and waterfalls.
What Should I Pack for Taiwan?
Many American brands of goods and clothing are available in Taiwan, but it’s still a good idea to be prepared. When going to Taiwan, it’s always important to pack the essentials, such as:
- Rain Gear – With the unpredictable weather in the country, especially during the summer, a good umbrella and raincoat are a must.
- Light Layers – The climate in Taiwan tends to be very warm, so be sure to bring clothing that can keep you cool. But, the temperature can drop at nights, so a few outer layers are a good idea. If you’ll be in the mountains in winter, you’ll probably want some heavy layers too.
- Mosquito Repellent – Because Taiwan is a tropical island, mosquitoes are common. These insects often carry diseases of various types. Make sure you’re protected with repellents.
- Hand Sanitizer and Tissues – You may find that some public restrooms in Taiwan are missing some basic necessities, such as hand soap or toilet paper. Be prepared for this by bringing a bottle of Purell and a pack of tissues everywhere you go.
U.S. Embassy in Taiwan
All Americans visiting Taiwan 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 Taiwan, the information for the U.S. consular services is:
The American Institute in Taipei, Taiwan
100 Jinhu Road, Neihu District Taipei 114017, Taiwan
Telephone: +886-(0)2-2162 2000 ext. 2306
Emergency Telephone: +886-(0)2-2162 2000
Fax: +886-(0)2-2162 2239
The United States maintains an unofficial relationship with Taiwan. The American Institute provides many of the same services as an embassy would.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Taiwan
“The RN did a great job explaining details of my Taiwan trip health risks. She took time with me so that I didn’t feel that she rushed through to “get to” the next person. Actually the next clients came in as I was going out. That is perfect timing which shows the office considers individual clients important.”
“Great service. Our nurse took us carefully through the risks and options for living in Taiwan. Very professional and with a sense of humor!”
“The staff provided priceless information about my up coming trip to Taiwan that will help insure my comfort and medical safety. I really appreciate it!”
“I am traveling to Taiwan for the first time for business. The nurse at the Charlotte location was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and professional. I feel that my specific medical history and travel itinerary was thoroughly reviewed and I received accurate, valuable and current travel/disease prevention information and services.”
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