Cambodia is a highlight of many Southeast Asia itineraries, from the temples of Angkor to Phnom Penh and the south coast. It is also a destination where medical care is limited outside the capital, so a pre-travel plan is worth the time.
Key points
- Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are commonly recommended for Cambodia.
- Dengue, chikungunya and Japanese encephalitis are widespread, according to Smartraveller.
- Malaria is present throughout Cambodia, but the CDC lists no or negligible risk in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and the main Angkor Wat temple complex.
- Rabies is fatal without vaccination or quick treatment.
- Outside Phnom Penh there are almost no facilities that can deal with medical emergencies.
Travelling soon? A TMA travel doctor can tailor your vaccines and advice to your itinerary.
Which vaccinations do I need?
The right vaccines depend on your itinerary, length of stay, activities, age and health. These are the vaccines most often discussed.
Routine vaccines, including measles
Check your routine vaccines are up to date before any overseas trip. The Australian Immunisation Handbook advises that Australians born in or after 1966 who have not had 2 doses of a measles-containing vaccine should generally have MMR before travel. See our measles and travel checklist.
Hepatitis A
The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends hepatitis A vaccine for travellers aged 1 year and over going to countries where hepatitis A is common, unless they are already immune. It is spread through contaminated food and water.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccine may be recommended for travellers aged 2 years and over to most of Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, according to the Australian Immunisation Handbook, particularly for longer stays, rural travel or visiting friends and relatives. It is available as an injection or oral capsules.
Rabies
Smartraveller warns that rabies is fatal if you are not vaccinated or do not receive quick treatment, and notes post-exposure treatment is available at larger facilities in tourist areas, including the Institut Pasteur rabies clinic in Phnom Penh. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination can be given over two visits a week apart. It does not remove the need for treatment after a bite, but means you need fewer doses and do not need rabies immunoglobulin, which can be hard to find overseas. Wash any bite or scratch thoroughly with soap and water and get medical care the same day.
Japanese encephalitis
The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends JE vaccine for travellers spending a month or more in endemic areas, and suggests considering it for shorter trips with rural travel, camping or travel in the wet season. Adults usually need one dose of Imojev or two doses of JEspect 28 days apart. See our JE guide.
Do I need malaria tablets for Cambodia?
It depends on where you go. The CDC lists malaria as present throughout Cambodia, with none or negligible transmission in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and the main temple complex at Angkor Wat. Smartraveller notes malaria is common in some regions, especially along the borders in mountain regions. If you are travelling beyond the main tourist areas, your travel doctor may recommend tablets. See our malaria tablets guide.
Food, water and methanol
Waterborne and foodborne diseases are common in Cambodia, cholera outbreaks occur in some rural areas, and rivers and lakes can carry schistosomiasis. Avoid swimming in fresh water. Smartraveller also warns that methanol is highly toxic and as little as one shot can be fatal, so only drink branded, sealed drinks.
Medical care
Smartraveller notes public medical facilities are generally poor, hospitals usually require cash up front, and serious illness or injury may require evacuation. Make sure your travel insurance covers evacuation.
When should I see a travel doctor?
Healthdirect recommends seeing your doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. Every TMA member clinic offers pre-travel consultations and is an approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need malaria tablets for Angkor Wat?
Usually not for Siem Reap and the main Angkor Wat temple complex, where the CDC lists none or negligible malaria. Travel to rural and border areas is different, so check with your travel doctor.
Is there rabies in Cambodia?
Yes. Avoid patting dogs and other animals, and get medical help straight away after any bite or scratch.
How long before my trip should I see a travel doctor?
Ideally 4 to 6 weeks before you leave, so there is time for vaccines that need more than one dose. If you are leaving sooner, an appointment is still worthwhile.
Find a TMA travel doctor near you.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Recommendations change, so speak with your doctor before you travel.