Vaccinations for
Philippines
As you are on your way to planning your trip to Philippines, it is a great time to inform yourself about the required vaccinations for Philippines and other health recommendations.
01. Vaccine list
Below is the official information about the required and/or highly recommended vaccinations for Philippines.
Book an appointment online to get vaccinated at your local pharmacy. If you are unsure as to which vaccinations you require, book a free telephone consultation with one of our medical advisors, who will create a vaccine plan based on your needs.
Most travellers
Some travellers
02. Other health risks in Philippines
In the Philippines, there is a presence of other diseases that cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Please read the following safety recommendations.
Malaria
There is a low risk of malaria present in the country all year round in areas below the altitude of 600 metres, but you can exclude most cities.
Areas that contain a low risk are the provinces of Apayo, Zambales and Mindóro Occidental, Zamboanga del Norte as well as the islands of Mindanao, Palawan and the Sulu Archipelago (Tawi Tawi).
In these areas the risk is not high enough for antimalarial tablets to be necessary, unless you plan on staying for a long time in rural areas or have a weakened immune system from a previous or current illness.
For everyone going to Philippines, malaria precautions are essential.
Zika
There is a risk of zika virus in Philippines. As there is no specified zika risk map for the country, it is best to take precautions in avoiding mosquito bites throughout the day, throughout your visit.
Dengue
There is a confirmed year-round risk of dengue throughout Philippines, with recent case reported in Central Visayas and Cebu Province. The risk is highest during the rainy season from May to November.
03. Precautions for Philippines
It is important to take precautions during your stay in Philippines, as the diseases can be spread in many different ways and the risk can increase at anytime.
Mosquitoes
There is a risk of malaria, dengue fever and zika in Philippines, and you cannot be protected against the diseases by vaccination.
Because of this, it is really important you protect yourself against mosquito bites, as they are the main cause of these infections during your stay in the country.
Food and water
All travellers going to the Philippines should take care with food and water hygiene, as there is a risk of typhoid, cholera and hepatitis A, which are all transmitted through contaminated food and water.
If you are visiting friends or relatives in the Philippines or are a long-stay traveller, you are at increased risk of consuming contaminated food and drinks, and you should therefore be extra careful.
04. Useful contacts in Philippines
This is a brief overview of important information and useful contacts that may help you while in Philippines.
The British Embassy Manila The British Embassy Manila can assist you, if you are in need for urgent help. You can call them on +63 2 858 2200.
Local emergency medical services Philippines has a national emergency hotline. For emergencies needing medical assistance, dial +63 2 911-1406 or +63 911.
Medical facilities and practitioners If you get ill while you are in Philippines and need to see a doctor, it is important that you are in possession of recommendations for a reputable medical facility. The British Embassy in Manila has prepared a list of medical facilities and practitioners in Philippines.
05. Checklist for your trip to Philippines
Check if you need vaccinations Book an appointment at your local pharmacy at least 6 to 8 weeks before travel to get vaccinated
Mosquito protection Ensure you have everything you need to minimise your chance of mosquito bites while in Philippines, including DEET insect repellent
Yellow fever certificate Double-check if the yellow fever certificate is required upon entry in Philippines, as the requirements can change
Travel insurance If you become ill in Philippines and did not receive the right vaccinations before you left, your travel insurance can become void. So, make sure to check before you leave
Note useful contact numbers Make a list of contacts to take with you to Philippines, as these can be helpful in case of an emergency
06. How to book your travel vaccinations
If you already know which vaccinations you need, you can book a vaccination appointment at your local pharmacy.
If you would like to discuss your specific requirements with a medical advisor, book a free telephone consultation. A Practio nurse will give an individual assessment of your needs and recommend a suitable vaccination programme.
Anne Marie Major, Independent Nurse Prescriber
June 20, 2019
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