Travel Vaccines and Advice for China
China is a fascinating country full of natural wonders, rich culture, and breathtaking architecture. Located on the southeastern edge of Asia, this country is ideal for tourists wishing to experience a unique part of the Eastern world.
Do I Need Vaccines for China?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for China. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for China: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Does not apply to Hong Kong or Macao. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Cases reported in all provinces except Tibet, Xinjiang and Qinghai. Most common June to October. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - 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. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Generally considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for China |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Does not apply to Hong Kong or Macao. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Cases reported in all provinces except Tibet, Xinjiang and Qinghai. Most common June to October. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Routine Vaccinations for China |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| 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. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Generally considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
As of September 2016, health authorities have confirmed a case of avian influenza A (H7N9) in China. Travellers are advised to avoid any contact with poultry and to not consume any undercooked poultry while travelling.
Tuberculosis is an increasing problem in China. While risks to tourists are low, there is a chance of contamination. If you think you have been exposed, seek out TB testing as soon as you return home.
As one of the largest countries in the world, China has a wide range of climates. This means various mosquito-borne diseases can thrive in different parts of the country. Be sure to bring repellents and netting. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn if antimalarials or a Japanese encephalitis vaccine are right for you. Dengue and chikungunya are also present in the country.
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.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for China
“The travel clinic nurse was very friendly and professional in explaining and administering the vaccines our family members needed for our trip to China. She helped our young son feel comfortable and prepare for his shots. Also, she explained all the information and looked over our immunization records thoroughly. We would go to this clinic again in the future.”
“We found out about Passport Health through a friend. It was externally easy to fill out all the information on the internet. The appointment was on time and the nurse was amazing. She is very knowledgeable and gave us all the options we needed for our trip to China.”
“We are planning a trip to China and came to the clinic on the advice of my family doctor who is in Scarborough. The nurse ( sorry I forget her name) was very friendly and knowledgeable about the diseases and vaccines.”
“We found the nurse who provided information to us on the shots required for our visit to China to be very informed and helpful to us. I would recommend Passport Health to those travelling to more exotic destinations.”
“My husband and I received a warm and friendly welcome at the North York location today, as well as very helpful and thorough advice for our upcoming trip to China.”
What are China’s Passport and Visa Requirements?
To enter China, a valid Canadian passport is required as well as a visa. These visas are “multi-entry” visas meaning you may get up to ten years of valid entries with a single visa. Applications are available online and a photo of yourself is required.
China Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to China? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
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| Tourist Visa | |
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| Business Visa | |
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| Vaccinations | |
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Sources: Embassy of China and Canadian Travel and Tourism
For travellers entering the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), you must receive a special permit through a Chinese travel agent. Travellers could face fines, custody and deportation if they enter the region illegally.
There are a variety of visa options in China. Passport Health’s travel document services department can help you identify which one is right for your trip.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in China?
The climate in China varies from region to region. In the northern region, winters can be very cold and summers are hot with very little rain.
In the southern region, rain is more common. Summers are expected to feel more tropical and rains are common. Winters are generally a bit cooler with less rain. The average high in the summer is in the 30’s and the high-20’s in winter.
Earthquakes are common in all areas of China. Be aware of earthquake safety precautions before travelling.
How Safe Is China?
China is a very safe country for travellers. In general, petty street crime is the only safety concern that travellers may come across. To avoid being a victim of these crimes, practice routine safety precautions.
China has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs. Any visitors that are caught using or in possession of drugs could face severe consequences, including the death penalty. Do not bring illicit substances to China or buy them while visiting the country.
If trekking to isolated or lesser populated places, be sure to travel in a group. This will reduce the risk of safety threats brought on by criminals. As an extra precaution, always leave the itinerary, mobile number, and the estimated time of return with a third party.
How to Travel While in China
Due to the high population of people in China, travelling may be more difficult than expected. Traffic is unregulated and chaotic, causing high rates of automobile accidents.
Take one of the many methods of public transportation to get around. These include subways, trains, and buses, which have positive safety records.
When travelling long distances through China, a safe and low-cost option is the train service. Schedules and availability can change, be sure to plan your trip ahead of time.
Tips for Visiting the Great Wall
One of China’s most notable features is the Great Wall. A historic series of defensive walls, it was built along the country’s northern border to defend against invaders. It is the only man-made structure visible from space.
With over 10 million visitors each year, the Great Wall has become one of the world’s most visited sites. It runs along the hills of the land, revealing the vast countryside along the way. Full-day tours are offered from Beijing and other larger cities.
What Should I Pack for My Trip to China?
As a majestic destination, China has much to offer travellers. But, it is best to be ready before you go. Consider packing these items for your upcoming trip:
- Insect Repellents – Mosquitoes can be a problem in some parts of China. Make sure you’re protected with a good repellent and, if needed, mosquito netting.
- Parka or Windbreaker – Temperatures can vary from region to region, but wind is a very common denominator. A windbreaker or parka will provide some protection while also keeping you dry in rains.
- traveller’s Diarrhea Kit – Food in China can be very different from what you are used to. Brining a traveller’s diarrhea kit can help you avoid any unforeseen issues.
- Backpack – Using a backpack is the best way to haul your clothing and gear around China, even if you aren’t hiking.
- Comfortable Shoes – No matter where you go or what you do, you will be doing a lot of walking. Make sure your shoes fit well and are comfortable to avoid blisters or soreness.
Canadian Embassy in China
The Embassy of Canada employs a policy which supports sustaining peace and maintaining human rights. They also strive to prevent corruption and discrimination.
Canadian Embassy Beijing
19 Dongzhimenwai Dajie
Chaoyang District
Beijing 100600 PRC
Telephone: +86(10) 5139-4000
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
On This Page:
What Vaccines Do I Need For China?
What are China’s Passport and Visa Requirements?
What Is The Climate Like In China?
How Safe Is China?
How to Travel While in China
Tips for Visiting the Great Wall
What Should I Pack for My Trip to China?
Canadian Embassy in China
