Travel Vaccines and Advice for Macao
Macao is located off the southeastern coast of China. It is officially an autonomous region within China.
Though Macao is small in size, it makes up for it with its luxury hotels and many casinos. The country’s economy relies nearly entirely on tourism. Macao takes good care of its tourists and offers a wide variety of cultural experiences and deluxe accommodations.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Macao?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Macao
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Macao?
What Is the Climate Like in Macao?
How Safe Is Macao?
Ruins of St. Paul’s
What Should I Take to Macao?
Canadian Embassy in Macao
Do I Need Vaccines for Macao?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Macao. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Macao: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, 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 travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers 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 Macao |
||
| 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 travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Macao |
||
| 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, a bacterial infection, is primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, recommended for travellers to endemic regions and those at risk due to occupation.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine provides effective prevention against the virus. It is administered in a series of shots, usually starting in childhood, and is recommended for travel to areas with high infection rates.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects mammals and spreads through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Preventing rabies involves vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals, and seeking immediate medical attention if exposed. The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventive measure that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a vital tool in the prevention of this liver infection, recommended for all travellers and essential for healthcare workers and those at higher risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Malaria is also present in some regions. Antimalarials may be recommended based on your itinerary.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Macao
Prevent Bug Bites in Macao
Prevent bug bites by covering up and using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If bitten, wash the bite, resist scratching, and soothe with hydrocortisone or antihistamines. Seek urgent care for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Macao
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options. A travellers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Infections To Be Aware of in Macao
- Dengue – Dengue fever, caused by Aedes mosquito bites, poses a significant global health risk. Preventative measures, including avoiding mosquito bites, are crucial due to the lack of direct antiviral treatments.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Macao?
A passport which is valid for at least 30 days from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A visa is not required for stays less than 30 days. Those travelling to mainland China via Hong Kong must obtain a Chinese visa before arrival. A visa is also required to re-enter China from Macao.
Macao Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Macao? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Macao and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Macao?
Macao’s climate is subtropical. While it is generally warm year-round the climate is influenced by monsoon weather.
Summers in Macao are damp. The country sees around 210 centimetres of rain a year. Winters are warm with temps around 18.
Tourists travelling to Macao should be aware that severe storms are not a rarity. Those travelling here during the hot summer months should be prepared for heavy rain.
How Safe Is Macao?
Macao has a low crime rate, but, crimes do occur. The most common are pick-pocketing and petty theft.
Counterfeit and pirated goods are fairly accessible. While they may be cheap, they are illegal. Travellers are encouraged to always stay vigilant even in private areas. Always keep your important documents and money safely hidden and protected.
Most self-protection weapons are banned in Macao. This includes, but is not limited to, mace, pepper spray, and stun guns, according to The Canadian government. Possession of these types of items within the borders of Macao can result in persecution. For this reason, it is best to leave these items at home.
Ruins of St. Paul’s
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
The Ruins of St. Paul’s is an important place to visit in Macao. It is the remains of a 17th-century church and shows Macao’s history and mix of Chinese and European cultures. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means it is very special and important. The beautiful stone wall has many carvings of people, animals, and symbols. It is a great example of fancy, old-style architecture.
Tourists can visit the Ruins of St. Paul’s to see the beautiful wall and take pictures. They can also visit the small museum and crypt under the ruins to see religious items and learn more about the history. From the top of the hill, people can enjoy a great view of the city. The Ruins of St. Paul’s is close to other interesting places, like the Macao Museum and the Fortaleza do Monte.
Visiting the Ruins of St. Paul’s helps tourists learn about Macao’s history and the mix of Chinese and European cultures. It is a great starting point for exploring the city and other nearby attractions.
What Should I Take to Macao?
When packing for Macao, think about the weather, customs, and activities. Bring these items:
- Clothes: Light clothes for hot weather, a jacket for cool nights, walking shoes, hat, sunglasses and rain gear.
- Toiletries: Small toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, needed medicines, and a first aid kit.
- Electronics: Smartphone, charger, power bank, camera, power adapter, and headphones.
- Documents and money: Passport, visas, copies of important papers, travel insurance, local money (Macao Pataca or Hong Kong Dollars) and credit cards.
- Other items: Reusable water bottle, snacks, small backpack, guidebook, language app, travel pillow and eye mask.
Check the weather before you go and leave room in your bag for souvenirs.
Canadian Embassy in Macao
Canada currently does not have a residential government office in Macao. All consular assistance should be obtained from the Consulate General in Hong Kong:
Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong
9th floor, Berkshire House,
25 Westlands Road,
Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
Phone: (852) 2867 7348 (this line is not for immigration/visa; ce numéro n’est pas pour l’immigration/visa)
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Macao
“Very skilled and knowledgeable person who explained the risks for Macao. The takeaway package prepared has great reference tips to ensure over safe travel.”
“Great clinic, nurse was very knowledgeable and had a great disposition. Now ready to travel to Macao.”
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