Travel Vaccines and Advice for Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and was the last of the Soviet Republics to do so. Its largest city, Almaty, is a central trading hub and has several landmarks including the Ascension Cathedral.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Kazakhstan?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kazakhstan
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Kazakhstan?
What Is the Climate Like in Kazakhstan?
How Safe Is Kazakhstan?
Visiting the Charyn Canyon
What Should I Pack for Kazakhstan?
U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan
Do I Need Vaccines for Kazakhstan?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Kazakhstan. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kazakhstan: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, tick-borne encephalitis, 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. - 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. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Cases mostly occur in eastern regions of the country. Some sporadic cases occur in northern and central regions. - 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 Kazakhstan |
||
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Cases mostly occur in eastern regions of the country. Some sporadic cases occur in northern and central regions. |
| 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 Kazakhstan |
||
| 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 is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when traveling to high-risk areas.
- 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.
- Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral disease transmitted through ticks, particularly in wooded areas. Preventive measures such as vaccination, along with wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent, are essential to shield against TBE and its neurological complications.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- 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 is not present in Kazakhstan. But, malaria is in some surrounding countries. Precautions may be recommended depending on if you are visiting other destinations.
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 Kazakhstan
Prevent Bug Bites in Kazakhstan
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 Kazakhstan
Abroad, food safety entails avoiding street vendors, thorough hand-washing, and opting for well-cooked dishes. Choose sealed bottled or canned beverages. To prevent travelers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at reliable restaurants.
Altitude Sickness in Kazakhstan
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), arises at high elevations due to decreased oxygen levels. To prevent AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms like headaches or fatigue develop, descend to lower altitudes for rest and recovery, seeking medical help if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Kazakhstan
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
- Leishmaniasis – The transmission of leishmaniasis primarily occurs through infected sand fly bites, with other routes of transmission possible. Preventing the disease involves minimizing exposure to sand flies. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan has a pilot program allowing U.S. citizens to remain in the country for up to 30 days. This excludes those seeking employment or performing missionary work.
Tourists wishing to remain longer than 90 days within a six month period must apply for a visa.
Kazakhstan Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Kazakhstan? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Kazakhstan and U.S. State Department
To enter the country, a U.S. citizen must have a passport with three months’ validity and one blank passport page.
What Is the Climate Like in Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan is a big country with different types of weather. In Almaty, the weather is warm in summer and cold in winter. The capital city, Nur-Sultan, has hot summers and very cold winters with lots of snow.
Charyn Canyon has hot and dry summers, while winters are cold and snowy. Lake Balkhash has warm summers and cold winters too. Altyn-Emel National Park has hot summers and cold winters as well.
Remember, the weather can change a lot in Kazakhstan, so always check the weather before you go.
How Safe Is Kazakhstan?
All foreigners must carry a valid passport while in Kazakhstan. You may be placed under surveillance. Phone calls and hotels may be monitored as well as searched.
Crimes such as pickpockets, purse snatching and robbery are the most common. Other more serious crimes such as ATM skimming are becoming more common.
To protect yourself from being a victim you take the following precautions:
- Never enter an unmarked or unregistered cab. All cabs should show pre-arranged identification or produce it upon request.
- Always remain aware of your surroundings especially at night or in busy places.
- Avoid violence by complying with street criminals demands. Once you reach safety, report it to the nearest police and U.S. embassy.
Visiting the Charyn Canyon
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Charyn Canyon is a beautiful place in Kazakhstan that people visit for its amazing views and fun activities. It is sometimes called Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon because of its stunning rock formations and landscapes. When tourists visit Charyn Canyon, they can do many exciting things:
- Enjoy the pretty views: The canyon has colorful rocks and a lovely river that make it a great place to look at, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Hike: There are trails for people to walk and explore the canyon, like the famous Valley of Castles, which has rocks that look like old castles.
- Take pictures: The canyon’s unique scenery is perfect for photographers.
- Camp: Visitors can spend the night camping under the stars and enjoy the peacefulness of the canyon.
- Go river rafting: People can have fun rafting down the Charyn River, which runs through the canyon.
- Watch wildlife: Charyn Canyon is home to animals like foxes, mountain goats and golden eagles.
- Have a picnic: Many tourists go to Charyn Canyon for a day trip and enjoy picnics surrounded by the pretty scenery.
Charyn Canyon is an exciting place for anyone who loves nature, adventure and taking pictures. It offers a memorable experience for people visiting Kazakhstan.
What Should I Pack for Kazakhstan?
Packing for any destination can be stressful. Check out this helpful list for everything you may need for Kazakhstan.
- Warm layers are necessary for cold nights as temperatures can become very cold at night.
- Waterproof boots and jacket are handy for unpredictable rainfall.
- Good hiking boots are better for long hikes than regular sneakers.
- Hand sanitizer can help prevent you from getting sick.
- Insect repellent is a must to protect against mosquitoes in the summer.
- Bring all personal medications or other necessities such as contact lenses. You may not be able to buy them in Kazakhstan.
U.S. Embassy in Kazakhstan
All Americans visiting Kazakhstan 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 Kazakhstan, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Astana
Rakhymzhan Koshkarbayev Avenue, No. 3.
Astana, Kazakhstan, 010010
Phone: +7 (7172) 70-21-00
Remember, some services need appointments and may cost money. For the most accurate information, check the embassy website.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Kazakhstan
Overall rating: 5 stars – 4 reviews
★★★★★
“Excellent Summary“
“We were pleased with the information regarding our international travel and the needs for boosters/shots for various diseases in Kazakhstan. There was an excellent overview and document provided to us about our travel planning.”
Submitted by: Peggy
★★★★★
“Great Help!“
“I was pleased with the printed information I was given. I was happy that the vaccines were there and available for Kazakhstan.”
Submitted by: Paulette
★★★★★
“Great clinic“
“My RN knew exactly what I needed and answered all of my questions extremely well. I’m glad I had access to the knowledge she provided for my trip to Kazakhstan.”
Submitted by: Jacqueline
★★★★★
“So Informative!“
“Not only did I receive my vaccinations that I needed, but also a detailed booklet of travel precautions in general for my area. They really gave me a lot of information and tips on how to stay safe and healthy during my trip to Kazakhstan.”
Submitted by: Sara
“We were pleased with the information regarding our international travel and the needs for boosters/shots for various diseases in Kazakhstan. There was an excellent overview and document provided to us about our travel planning.”
“I was pleased with the printed information I was given. I was happy that the vaccines were there and available for Kazakhstan.”
“My RN knew exactly what I needed and answered all of my questions extremely well. I’m glad I had access to the knowledge she provided for my trip to Kazakhstan.”
“Not only did I receive my vaccinations that I needed, but also a detailed booklet of travel precautions in general for my area. They really gave me a lot of information and tips on how to stay safe and healthy during my trip to Kazakhstan.”
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