Travel Vaccines and Advice for Vanuatu
Vanuatu is a small country made up of almost 80 islands resting in the Southern Pacific Ocean. This archipelago is known for its unique island life, beaches and water-based adventures.
Port Vila is home to many exciting destinations, such as the National Museum of Vanuatu. There are also the nearby Rainbow Botanical Gardens. If tourists want to shop, head to downtown Port Vila to find the local, bustling market. One can even take a tour to Ekasup Cultural Village, or go swimming or jet skiing nearby.
Other popular destinations in Vanuatu include Mount Yasur, located on Tanna island. This active volcano erupts frequently. But, it also provides the soil for some of the best local coffee, include that of the Mount Yasur Coffee Collaroy.
If anyone is looking for a unique culture, Vanuatu is exactly what they are looking for.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Vanuatu?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Vanuatu
Do I Need a Visa for Vanuatu?
What Is the Climate Like in Vanuatu?
How Safe Is Vanuatu?
Keeping Afloat While in Vanuatu
What Should I Pack for Vanuatu?
Canadian Embassy in Vanuatu
Do I Need Vaccines for Vanuatu?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Vanuatu. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Vanuatu: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, 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. - 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 Vanuatu |
||
| 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. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Vanuatu |
||
| 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 fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- 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 – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread via infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and vaccination. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, offering strong and enduring immunity against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases that can lead to complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. To combat these threats, vaccination with the MMR vaccine is imperative. This two-dose vaccine not only shields individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Malaria in Vanuatu
Malaria is present in all regions of Vanuatu. Travellers are advised to take antimalarials no matter their destination or itinerary in the country. Malaria in Vanuatu is chloroquine resistant, be sure to speak with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial is best for your trip.
Malaria and dengue are present on Vanuatu. Take precautions including using insect repellent and netting. Antimalarials are recommended for travellers to the island.
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.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Vanuatu
Prevent Bug Bites in Vanuatu
Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Vanuatu
Abroad, practice food safety by avoiding street vendors, washing hands thoroughly, and choosing well-cooked meals. Opt for bottled or canned drinks with unbroken seals. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by practicing hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Infections To Be Aware of in Vanuatu
- 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.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can lead to birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa For Vanuatu?
A passport which is valid for 6 months from the departure date is required to enter the country. A visa is not required for tourism purposes for stays up to 30 days. A business visa is required. An onward/ return ticket and proof of sufficient funds are required as well.
Vanuatu Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Vanuatu? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Vanuatu 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 Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is a beautiful island country located in the South Pacific Ocean, with more than 80 islands. The four most popular tourist destinations in Vanuatu are Port Vila, Luganville, Espiritu Santo and Tanna Island. The weather in all these destinations is tropical, warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees. The wet season is from November to April, with the heaviest rainfall in January and February.
If you’re planning to visit Vanuatu, it’s important to check the weather forecast before travelling. This will help you prepare for the climate and ensure a safe and pleasant trip. Vanuatu’s popular tourist destinations have a warm and humid climate, with the wet season occurring from November to April.
How Safe Is Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is a beautiful country in the South Pacific with amazing beaches and friendly people. It’s mostly safe for travellers, but it’s still important to be careful. Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Pay attention to what’s around you, especially in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night.
- Respect the local customs, which can be conservative. Be modest in your dress, especially when visiting villages or traditional ceremonies.
- Be careful when swimming, as some beaches may have dangerous currents or marine life. Look for warning signs and take precautions.
- Always carry a form of identification with you, like your passport.
- Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or on public transport.
- Use tour operators that are well-known and trustworthy, especially if you plan on doing outdoor activities.
- Get travel insurance that covers you for accidents or medical emergencies.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Vanuatu.
Keeping Afloat While in Vanuatu
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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Tanna Island is a place in Vanuatu that many tourists like to visit. People go there to see the Mount Yasur volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. They can hike to the edge of the crater and watch it explode.
Tanna Island is also famous for its unique culture, and visitors can learn about the Yakel and Imaio tribes. These tribes have special traditions like sand drawing and custom dance. People can also enjoy the beaches, go swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the clear water. There are animals to see like the dugong and the Tanna ground dove. Visitors can buy local crafts and souvenirs at the markets.
Tanna Island is a unique place where people can learn about a different culture, see amazing things like an active volcano, and have fun in the water.
What Should I Pack for Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is a beautiful tropical country in the South Pacific that has lovely beaches, rainforests, and an exciting culture. If you’re planning to visit Vanuatu, there are some things you should pack to make your trip enjoyable. You’ll need lightweight and breathable clothes made of cotton or linen, comfortable shoes like sandals, flip flops, and sneakers, sunscreen with a high SPF, and insect repellent to protect against bugs.
You should also bring a waterproof phone case, hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight rain jacket in case of rains. Bring cash and credit cards for purchases, and a travel adapter for your electronics. Pack any prescription medications you need and a basic first aid kit with items like band-aids and pain relievers. If you’re planning on snorkeling, consider bringing your own gear.
It’s essential to check the weather forecast before you go to ensure you’ve packed the right things.
Canadian Embassy in Vanuatu
Canada currently does not have a residential government office in Vanuatu. Consular assistance may be obtained from the High Commission of Australia under the Canada- Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.
Canadian Embassy Port Moresby
Winston Churchill Avenue,
Port Vila, Vanuatu
Tel.: 678 22777 / 61 2 6261 3305 (24 hours)
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Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Vanuatu
“This is the first time I’m going to a travel clinic which was recommended to me by a friend and it was a fantastic experience. My nurse was great. So friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable in all of the medications/vaccinations that were needed for my trip to Vanuatu. She answered all of my questions and didn’t miss a beat. Overall a great experience!”
“Friendly, efficient, professional and knowledgeable about Vanuatu.”
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