Planning a trip to Thailand? From vibrant cities like Bangkok to idyllic islands and lush jungles, it’s easy to see why so many travellers visit each year. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to consider the risk of catching certain illnesses abroad and what vaccines you may need to protect yourself.
If you’re unsure where to start, you can book a travel clinic appointment in Cardiff for personalised advice based on your itinerary.
In this guide, we’ll break down which Thailand vaccines are needed, what they protect against, and which ones you won’t need, depending on your travel plans.
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What’s on this page?
| What vaccines are recommended for Thailand? |
| Hepatitis A |
| Tetanus |
| Which vaccines should you consider for Thailand? |
| Do you need a yellow fever vaccine for Thailand? |
What are the recommended Thailand vaccines?
For most UK travellers, the main vaccines recommended for Thailand are Hepatitis A and tetanus. These protect against infections that can be caught through food, water, or injuries while travelling.
While Thailand doesn’t require any mandatory vaccinations for travellers, these two are strongly recommended for most people.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is commonly spread through contaminated food and water, which can be a risk in areas where sanitation standards vary.
Even if you plan to stay in hotels and eat in restaurants, exposure can still happen through:
- Ice in drinks
- Raw or undercooked food
- Poor hand hygiene
The Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended because most people tolerate it well and it can provide long-lasting protection. Usually, two doses of the Hepatitis A vaccine are given. The first dose provides protection within 2–4 weeks and lasts around 1 year. The second dose is given 6–12 months later and provides long-lasting protection for at least 25 years.
Tetanus
Tetanus is caused by a toxin found in soil and manure. It enters the body through cuts, wounds, or burns.
Tetanus can lead to serious muscle stiffness, lockjaw, and other serious symptoms. It can be life-threatening without treatment and is fatal in 10–20% of cases.
Most children in the UK receive tetanus vaccinations as part of routine immunisations. Even if you have had several tetanus vaccines previously, it is still recommended that you have a booster if your last tetanus vaccine was more than ten years ago.
In the UK, the tetanus vaccine is combined with polio and diphtheria in a 3-in-1 vaccine. This means that when you are vaccinated against tetanus, you will also receive a booster for polio and diphtheria. There is also a 4-in-1 vaccine that contains whooping cough (pertussis).
To ensure you are fully protected, consider booking a travel vaccination consultation before your trip.
Which Thailand vaccines should I consider?
In addition to the recommended vaccines, there are several others that may be suitable depending on your travel plans, length of stay, and activities.
People who travel for more than one month or visit friends and relatives abroad are generally considered more at risk.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya is a virus that is transmitted by mosquitoes that mainly bite during the daytime. There is a risk of Chikungunya in Thailand. The virus can cause a flu-like illness and severe joint and muscle pain, but it is rarely fatal.
There is a vaccine for Chikungunya, but you can reduce your risk by avoiding mosquito bites through:
- Using insect repellent (we recommend products that contain DEET 50%)
- Covering up skin as much as possible (long sleeves, long trousers, long skirts)
- Staying in accommodation with screens or air conditioning
Dengue
Dengue fever is another illness spread by mosquitoes. It is common in tropical regions like Thailand. Symptoms can include a fever, headaches, muscle pain, and a rash. Over 40% of patients with dengue fever have no symptoms.
There is a vaccine for dengue infection but it is usually only offered to people who have had dengue fever in the past. Preventing mosquito bites with the above advice is an important defence against Dengue fever.
Rabies
Rabies is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, especially dogs and monkeys. The World Health Organisation states that 99% of rabies cases are caused by dog bites or scratches. Once the symptoms appear, it is fatal in 100% of cases.
Rabies is a risk in Thailand and it has been reported in domesticated animals in the country. Children are at an increased risk because they are less likely to avoid contact with animals.
People who are concerned about rabies can receive the vaccine. You are more at risk if you stay in the area for longer than a month or if you plan to do certain activities like cycling or running. You should also consider it if you think you will be around animals while in Thailand.
If you have never had the rabies vaccine before, you will need a course of 3 doses over 1-4 weeks. If you have had the 3 dose course before, you will usually need a booster every 2-5 years.
Even if you have been vaccinated – you should always seek urgent medical attention if you receive a bite or scratch abroad because you will still need treatment. If you have not been vaccinated, you will need more complex medical treatment that isn’t always available in hospitals abroad.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection spread through blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Thailand is considered to have a medium-high prevalence of Hepatitis B.
Certain activities will put you at higher risk when abroad, such as:
- Having medical procedures
- Tattoos or piercings
- Unprotected sex
- Sharing needles
- Participating in contact sports
The vaccine is often recommended for longer trips or for people undertaking the above activities. The Hepatitis B vaccine is given over 3 doses at Day 0, Day 28, and 6 months later. Around 85% of people will have immunity 3 months after the first two doses but the third dose is given for long-term immunity. There is usually no need for a booster dose after having received 3 doses.
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious disease spread by mosquitoes, mainly in rural and agricultural areas. It is a viral infection of the brain that in rare cases can be fatal or cause serious complications.
Japanese Encephalitis occurs all over Thailand with the highest risk between May and October, especially in Northern regions like the Chiang Mai Valley.
You should consider this vaccine if you:
- Are travelling for more than a month
- Plan to visit rural areas or farms
- Will spend a lot of time outdoors
- Live in an area where Japanese Encephalitis can be spread
The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is given as a 2-dose schedule, either over 7 days or over 28 days. A third (booster) dose can be given after 12-24 months which will provide immunity for around 10 years.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water, in a similar way to Hepatitis A.
You may want the typhoid vaccine if:
- You’re visiting smaller towns or rural regions
- You plan to eat street food frequently
- You’re staying for an extended period
Do you need a yellow fever vaccine for Thailand?
There is no need to have a yellow fever vaccine for Thailand if you are travelling directly from the UK.
Thailand is not a country where yellow fever is present. The only time you would need proof of vaccination is if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is a risk. You can find a list of these countries on the Yellow Fever website.
Final thoughts
For most UK travellers heading to Thailand, Hepatitis A and tetanus vaccines are the key priorities. Beyond that, additional vaccines depend on your travel style, itinerary, and risk tolerance.
Before travelling, it’s best to seek personalised advice. You can book an appointment at our travel clinic to ensure you are fully prepared.
- Book a travel health consultation 6–8 weeks before departure
- Check your existing vaccination records
- Take precautions against mosquito bites and practise safe food hygiene
With the right preparation, you can enjoy your trip to Thailand safely and with peace of mind.
