Travel Vaccines and Advice for Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination with its tropical climate, food, culture and beaches.
Thai is the official language of Thailand. But, other smaller languages spoken in rural areas. The primary religion of Thailand is Buddhism and is prevalent in many aspects of culture throughout Thailand. Islam is also practiced in Southern provinces.
Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, is also the largest city in the country. Bangkok is highly populated with congested streets, modern buildings and temples. It is most known for its nightlife.
Thailand’s other major cities include Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Thailand
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Thailand?
What Is the Climate Like in Thailand?
How Safe Is Thailand?
Temples in Thailand
What Should I Take to Thailand?
U.S. Embassy in Thailand
Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Thailand. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Thailand: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, 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:
- 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. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Cholera is rare, but present in Thailand. Vaccination is recommended for travelers at increased risk or visiting areas with active transmission. - 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country, especially northern regions. Most cases from May to October. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Thailand is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended. - 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 Thailand |
||
| 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. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Cholera is rare, but present in Thailand. Vaccination is recommended for travelers at increased risk or visiting areas with active transmission. |
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country, especially northern regions. Most cases from May to October. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Thailand is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended. |
| 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 Thailand |
||
| 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, caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads via contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Protect yourself by practicing good hygiene and safe food habits. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of typhoid infection, especially when traveling to endemic areas.
- 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.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-spread viral disease that affects the central nervous system. Prevention is achieved through protective attire and vaccination.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and reducing breeding sites. The chikungunya vaccine provides the best protection.
- 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 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 viral infections that can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. Vaccination is the most effective way to halt their transmission. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, strengthens immunity, reducing the chances of contracting and spreading these diseases.
Malaria in Thailand
Malaria in Thailand is primarily found in border provinces near Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia. Rare cases occur in other regions. Chloroquine resistance is present in the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if traveling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
Japanese encephalitis vaccines are mandatory for those living in rural areas, hiking or camping. Those that plan to stay longer than a month should consider getting vaccinated.
Various mosquito-borne diseases are present in Thailand. Malaria poses a threat to travelers to some regions of the country. Make sure you are protected with antimalarials.
Medical treatment is adequate and common in urban areas. Healthcare is also available in rural areas, though the health care providers may not speak English.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Thailand
Prevent Bug Bites in Thailand
Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Thailand
When traveling, ensure food safety by adhering to CDC recommendations, which include eating fully cooked foods, avoiding raw seafood, and selecting reputable dining places. Safely drink bottled beverages, avoiding ice in uncertain water sources, and consume alcohol in moderation. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary areas.
Altitude Sickness in Thailand
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 Thailand
- Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, also known as bird flu, is a contagious virus that affects birds and can spread to humans. Preventing it involves vaccination of poultry, strict biosecurity on farms, safe handling and cooking of poultry, surveillance for outbreaks, and raising public awareness.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The CDC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
- 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.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, can cause mild to severe symptoms and poses significant risks during pregnancy. Prevention strategies include using insect repellent, safe sex practices, and avoiding travel to affected areas.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Thailand?
U.S. citizens staying in Thailand for 60 days or less do not need a visa. But, their passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Thailand Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Thailand? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Thailand and U.S. State Department
Always carry your passport and visa with you to avoid arrest in Thailand.
What Is the Climate Like in Thailand?
Thailand is a country with a tropical climate that is hot and humid throughout the year. The temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day. The weather can be different depending on where you are in Thailand. Here are some popular tourist destinations:
- Bangkok : Bangkok is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
- Phuket : Phuket is a tropical place. It can rain a lot from May to October. The temperature is usually between 75 and 90 degrees.
- Chiang Mai : Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three different seasons: cool, hot, and rainy. The cool season runs from November to February, the hot season from March to May, and the rainy season from June to October.
- Pattaya : Pattaya is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
- Koh Samui : Koh Samui is an island that has two different seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from December to April, and the rainy season from May to November.
Remember that weather can change, so always check the forecast before you travel.
How Safe Is Thailand?
In the past few years, there have been periodic terrorist attacks at popular tourist attractions in Thailand,. This remains a high-concern today. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks in Thailand.
The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has placed strict restrictions on media and have banned political gatherings. Tourists may be detained by the military for openly criticizing the NCPO.
Pick-pocketing is common in Thailand as is sexual violence in bars and isolated areas.
Do not use your passport as collateral. Many rental places are scams.
In Southern Thailand (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla), martial law is still prevalent. Tourists are cautioned against traveling to these areas.
Temples in Thailand
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
There are over 40,000 temples in Thailand, making them popular tourist attractions. These temples range in age and architecture and many are still in use today.
Wat Pho, located in Bangkok, is one of the most popular due to its size and attractions within. It is one of the largest complexes in the country, holding many buildings. Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and largest collection of Buddha images.
The site is also headquarters for the teaching and preservation of Thai medicine. There, tourists can find two massage schools and pavilions.
You must take off your shoes to enter and you purchase coins to put into bowls for good luck. All the money goes towards renovating and up-keeping the site.
What Should I Take to Thailand?
Thailand is a hot and humid country, it’s important to pack lightweight and comfortable clothing. You should bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to avoid the strong sun rays. Mosquitoes are common in Thailand, so it’s important to bring insect repellent to avoid bites.
Thailand uses different types of electrical outlets, so it’s recommended to bring a universal adapter. It’s also recommended to pack any prescription medication and over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and motion sickness medication.
Thailand is a cash-based society, so it’s important to bring cash and credit cards. If you plan to visit the beaches or go swimming, don’t forget to pack swimwear and a beach towel. When visiting temples or other religious sites, make sure to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places.
Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any other important travel documents.
U.S. Embassy in Thailand
All Americans visiting Tunisia 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 Thailand, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Bangkok
95 Wireless Road
Bangkok 10330
Thailand
Telephone: + (66) (2) 205-4049, 02-205-4049 (within Thailand)
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(66) (2) 205-4000, 02-205-4000 (within Thailand)
Fax: +(66) (2) 205-4103, 02-205-4103 (within Thailand)
Email: acsbkk@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to Thailand or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Thailand
Overall rating: 5 stars – 15 reviews
★★★★★
“Great experience“
“The nurse was very professional and knowledgeable about what we needed to safely travel to Thailand. She offered services that weren’t required, but was not overly forceful about selling them, allowing us to decide for ourselves. She was also very personable, making the visit relaxed and comfortable.”
Submitted by: David
★★★★★
“Great experience“
“The nurse was very thorough, and it was helpful to have a conversation with someone who specializes in travel medicine so I could determine how best to stay healthy during & after my trip to Thailand. I also appreciated the bound print-out provided – great to have all the info in one place! Will be back next time I’m traveling somewhere “adventurous”…”
Submitted by: Alex
★★★★★
“Very comforting“
“As a first time traveler I was nervous to be getting vaccines. The nurse made me feel confident and excited for my trip while informing me of things I should be aware of before going to Thailand! Definitely going back”
Submitted by: Sarah
★★★★★
“Great info and care taken with us!“
“The whole office was was very timely and well run. our nurse took time to talk about all our past history. Which was complicated. We had to change appointment times and she was very flexible and helpful. Our nurse was very knowledgeable about what we needed to be safe in Africa, and Thailand. The travel book she made had some great info on our destinations.”
Submitted by: Jett
★★★★★
“Amazing Consultation“
“Very thorough and professional. They went above and beyond to help us and make sure we were prepared. They went over our vaccinations and what to watch out for when we visited Thailand.”
Submitted by: Andrew
★★★★★
“Great Job!“
“The nurse was extremely helpful and nice. He answered any questions we had, not only about our medication, but also about Thailand. He made sure we knew that we could contact him with any questions or concerns before our trip.”
Submitted by: Brittany
★★★★★
“Travel safely“
“The RN has been helping my daughter prepare for her teenage trip to Thailand. She is always very pleasant and accommodating. We came to Passport health educated about what we needed for travel. Passport health made it easy to get the vaccines and products we needed. Thank you!”
Submitted by: Ali
★★★★★
“Informative“
“The nurse was very informative about what shots we would need for our move to Thailand. She was excellent in explaining everything we needed to know and much more! When given the shots it was pain free ( that never has happened before ) I was very impressed with everyone in the office! Receptionist was very sweet as well!! Thank you all for a great experience!!!”
Submitted by: Connie
★★★★★
“Very informed and efficient service“
“We used Passport Heath for a trip to Thailand and found the staff very well informed on travel vaccines and other health issues.”
Submitted by: Linda
★★★★★
“Vaccinations for travel to Thailand“
“The nurse was very thorough in explaining the different vaccines I might consider getting before my trip to Thailand. Also discussed the different health problems I might encounter and available over the counter products to deal with them.”
Submitted by: Teri
★★★★★
“good experience“
“Lots of good information. Helpful and caring clinician. Ready for my trip to Thailand”
Submitted by: Jennifer
★★★★★
“Trip toThailand“
“I’m heading to Thailand in 2 weeks and was concerned I would not be able to get my vaccination in time. Passport Health was there to help me out and is an excellent source of information as well. I would definitely recommend them and will return if I need anything for my next international journey.”
Submitted by: Mariah
★★★★★
“Very good experience“
“The RN was prepared for my appointment and very helpful in advising me about the necessary immunizations, prescriptions, and other recommendations for going to Thailand. She was willing to look up any additional information I wanted and answered all of my numerous questions. I am very glad I chose to go to Passport Health.”
Submitted by: Katherine
★★★★★
“Terrific Experience“
“I had a last minute trip to Thailand come up and needed to get some vaccination shots quickly. I was easily able to get an appointment with Passport Health. My nurse came to my appointment very prepared and clearly walked me through all of my options. I feel very well taken care of and will absolutely recommend Passport Health to people.”
Submitted by: Kathryn
★★★★★
“The Clinic Was AWESOME“
“The RN helped us for the 2nd time for our trip to Thailand and she was absolutely fantastic, super friendly and super helpful! She is a pleasure to work with and we will definitely recommend her and Passport Health to friends that will be traveling abroad.”
Submitted by: Summer
“The nurse was very professional and knowledgeable about what we needed to safely travel to Thailand. She offered services that weren’t required, but was not overly forceful about selling them, allowing us to decide for ourselves. She was also very personable, making the visit relaxed and comfortable.”
“The nurse was very thorough, and it was helpful to have a conversation with someone who specializes in travel medicine so I could determine how best to stay healthy during & after my trip to Thailand. I also appreciated the bound print-out provided – great to have all the info in one place! Will be back next time I’m traveling somewhere “adventurous”…”
“As a first time traveler I was nervous to be getting vaccines. The nurse made me feel confident and excited for my trip while informing me of things I should be aware of before going to Thailand! Definitely going back”
“The whole office was was very timely and well run. our nurse took time to talk about all our past history. Which was complicated. We had to change appointment times and she was very flexible and helpful. Our nurse was very knowledgeable about what we needed to be safe in Africa, and Thailand. The travel book she made had some great info on our destinations.”
“Very thorough and professional. They went above and beyond to help us and make sure we were prepared. They went over our vaccinations and what to watch out for when we visited Thailand.”
“The nurse was extremely helpful and nice. He answered any questions we had, not only about our medication, but also about Thailand. He made sure we knew that we could contact him with any questions or concerns before our trip.”
“The RN has been helping my daughter prepare for her teenage trip to Thailand. She is always very pleasant and accommodating. We came to Passport health educated about what we needed for travel. Passport health made it easy to get the vaccines and products we needed. Thank you!”
“The nurse was very informative about what shots we would need for our move to Thailand. She was excellent in explaining everything we needed to know and much more! When given the shots it was pain free ( that never has happened before ) I was very impressed with everyone in the office! Receptionist was very sweet as well!! Thank you all for a great experience!!!”
“We used Passport Heath for a trip to Thailand and found the staff very well informed on travel vaccines and other health issues.”
“The nurse was very thorough in explaining the different vaccines I might consider getting before my trip to Thailand. Also discussed the different health problems I might encounter and available over the counter products to deal with them.”
“Lots of good information. Helpful and caring clinician. Ready for my trip to Thailand”
“I’m heading to Thailand in 2 weeks and was concerned I would not be able to get my vaccination in time. Passport Health was there to help me out and is an excellent source of information as well. I would definitely recommend them and will return if I need anything for my next international journey.”
“The RN was prepared for my appointment and very helpful in advising me about the necessary immunizations, prescriptions, and other recommendations for going to Thailand. She was willing to look up any additional information I wanted and answered all of my numerous questions. I am very glad I chose to go to Passport Health.”
“I had a last minute trip to Thailand come up and needed to get some vaccination shots quickly. I was easily able to get an appointment with Passport Health. My nurse came to my appointment very prepared and clearly walked me through all of my options. I feel very well taken care of and will absolutely recommend Passport Health to people.”
“The RN helped us for the 2nd time for our trip to Thailand and she was absolutely fantastic, super friendly and super helpful! She is a pleasure to work with and we will definitely recommend her and Passport Health to friends that will be traveling abroad.”
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