The Oceania and the Pacific Islands
Ready to set sail to the enchanting Oceania and the Pacific Islands? Picture turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and diverse cultures. But, before you dive into the island vibes, let’s talk about staying healthy. In this guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of travel vaccines and share some easy tips to ensure your island adventure is not just unforgettable but safe too. Join us as we navigate the beauty of Oceania and the Pacific, prioritising your health every step of the way!
Vaccinations
The NHS strongly advise specific vaccinations for individuals traveling to the Oceania and the Pacific Islands. These include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, Japanese Encephalitis and rabies.
Additionally, routine vaccinations are also recommended, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap), influenza, chickenpox, pneumonia, meningitis, and polio.
For certain regions, you need to get a polio vaccine if you’re staying for more than four weeks. There are also areas where polio is still spreading, so make sure your vaccinations are current.
For certain itineraries, proof of yellow fever vaccination may be necessary.
Refer to the tables below for detailed information on recommended travel vaccinations for East and Southeast Asia:
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated Food or Water | Recommended for all travellers to most regions. |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated Body Fluids | (Sex, needles, etc.) Recommended for all travellers to most regions. |
| Typhoid | Contaminated Food or Water | Recommended for all travellers to most regions. |
| Cholera | Contaminated Food or Water | May be recommended based on your specific itinerary. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito-borne | May be recommended based on your specific itinerary. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito-borne | Recommended in most countries in the region. Highly recommended for specific itineraries. |
| Rabies | Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Polio | Infected Animals | Generally a routine vaccination. Recommended for some countries in the region. |
| Meningitis | Airborne or Direct Contact | Normally, a routine vaccination. Active transmission in some parts of the region. Required for travel for the Hajj |
| Dengue Fever | Mosquito-borne | A new dengue fever vaccine called Qdenga® has been licensed in the UK |
For more information on the vaccination required to your destination, please click here.
Additional Health Concerns
In Oceania and the Pacific Islands, there are other health concerns exist that cannot be prevented through vaccinations.
Malaria is prevalent in the region, and depending on your specific travel plans, antimalarial medication may be advised. It’s essential to note that antimalarial resistance exists in certain areas, potentially limiting your medication options. Consult a travel health specialist for personalised guidance.
Travellers’ diarrhoea is a common risk, often associated with trying new and exciting cuisines. While culinary exploration is part of the adventure, it’s crucial to ensure safe food preparation. Carrying a travellers’ diarrhoea kit can be beneficial in preventing illness and managing symptoms if they arise.
Consultation With Our Pharmacist
We want to make sure you’re ready for your trip. Our pharmacists can help you with:
Customised Vaccination Plans
Tell us your travel plans, and we’ll suggest the right vaccinations and work with you to make a vaccination plan for your trip.
Health and Safety Tips
Our experience pharmacist can provide you with advices on staying healthy during your trip, including tips on food safety and general well-being.
Medication and Health Supplies
Find out the medicines and supplies you should bring, and you can buy it at our pharmacy, making it your one-stop-shop for all your travel health needs.
Visit our travel clinic at St Katherine Dock, Wapping to have your free consultation today.
Book Now or call us at 020 7150 9934