Travel Vaccines and Advice for Wake Island
Wake Island is an unorganized and unincorporated territory of the United States. This small coral atoll in the Pacific Ocean is a restricted area, with only military personnel and scientists allowed on the island.
It is administered by the U.S. Air Force and is often used as a military refueling spot of aircraft. There are no permanent residents on Wake Island. But, there are usually about 100 military personnel living on the island at any given time.
Every once in a while there is a day trip from Military Historical Tours that can visit the island.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Wake Island?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Wake Island
What Is the Climate Like on Wake Island?
How Safe Is Wake Island?
Military Historical Tours On Wake Island
What Should I Take to Wake Island?
U.S. Embassy on Wake Island
Do I Need Vaccines for Wake Island?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Wake Island. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Wake Island: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, 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. - 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 Wake Island |
||
| 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. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Wake Island |
||
| 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 fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those at higher risk of typhoid exposure. Implementing rigorous hygiene practices and food safety measures is essential for comprehensive protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- 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 – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, primarily spread through blood and bodily fluids. The hepatitis B vaccine, given in a series of injections, effectively prevents the infection, offering long-term protection against this potentially life-threatening disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
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 Wake Island
Prevent Bug Bites in Wake Island
If you get bitten by bugs, clean the area, resist scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone or antihistamines to relieve itching. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Wake Island
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.
What Is the Climate Like on Wake Island?
Wake Island is a small island in the Pacific Ocean that is mainly used for military purposes, but it does have some tourist facilities. The weather on Wake Island is tropical, which means it is generally hot and humid throughout the year.
The average high temperature ranges from the mid-80s to low 90s, while the average low temperature is in the mid-70s. The rainy season runs from June through December, with the most rainfall occurring in October and November.
There are few tourist destinations on Wake Island, as it is mostly undeveloped. Most visitors are there for military or scientific purposes.
How Safe Is Wake Island?
Wake Island is a remote, uninhabited island located in the Pacific Ocean. It is mostly used for military purposes, and there are a few things travelers can do to stay safe if they decide to visit.
Be aware of the weather conditions. Wake Island is located in a tropical region and can experience typhoons and tropical storms. Check the weather before planning your trip.
Respect the island’s military presence. It is a military base, and visitors must follow the rules and regulations set by the military authorities.
Watch out for wildlife. The island has many animals, and while they can be beautiful to observe, they can also be dangerous if provoked.
Use protective gear when swimming. The coral reefs can be sharp and dangerous, so wear protective gear and do not touch or step on the reefs.
Bring enough water and food. There are no restaurants or grocery stores on Wake Island, so bring enough supplies for your trip.
Military Historical Tours On Wake Island
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Wake Island is a small island in the Pacific Ocean that is mainly used by the United States military. There are not many tourist facilities or things to do on the island, and it is not a popular tourist destination.
People who are allowed to visit the island are usually military personnel, government officials or researchers. The island is not open to the public for tourism, and there are no regular flights or tourist services available. It is not a place that many people go to visit for vacation.
Even then, there is a criteria on who may visit. People must be donors of the Pacific Aviation Museum, be a U.S. Citizen, or they can be WWII veterans, POWs, and their families.
What Should I Take to Wake Island?
Wake Island is a small, uninhabited territory of the United States in the Pacific Ocean. If you are planning a trip there, you should bring a few important things with you.
You will need a valid passport to enter the island. Since the island is in a tropical region, you should pack light and comfortable clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. The island also has a lot of sun, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself. You may also want to bring insect repellent since there may be mosquitoes and other insects on the island.
Wake Island has beautiful coral reefs and clear waters, so if you plan on going snorkeling, bring your own gear. You should also bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a camera or smartphone to capture the memories.
It’s important to bring any prescription medications or medical supplies you need. Wake Island has limited supplies and services, so it’s best to come prepared. The island also uses 120-volt power outlets, so bring a travel adapter to charge your electronics.
Wake Island is a remote and unique destination, so be sure to pack wisely and prepare for your adventure.
U.S. Embassy on Wake Island
All Americans visiting Wake Island 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.
Wake Island is a U.S. Territory, no consulate or embassy is present.
If you have any questions about traveling to Wake Island 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.
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