From Manila to Boracay, Cebu and Palawan, the Philippines is a popular destination for Australians, including many visiting family. Dengue and rabies are key risks, and malaria matters for some islands.
Key points
- Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are commonly recommended for the Philippines.
- Insect-borne illnesses are increasing in Manila and nearby provinces, especially in the rainy season from May to December.
- The CDC lists malaria in Palawan and Mindanao only, with none in metropolitan Manila and other urban areas.
- Rabies vaccine is worth discussing, especially for children and longer stays.
- Private hospitals in Metro Manila are well equipped, but rural care is limited.
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 the Philippines, 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
Rabies is present in the Philippines, as in much of Southeast Asia. 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 the Philippines?
Only for some areas. The CDC lists malaria in Palawan and Mindanao, with none in metropolitan Manila and other urban areas. If your itinerary includes Palawan or Mindanao, ask your travel doctor about tablets. See our malaria tablets guide.
Dengue and the rainy season
Smartraveller notes outbreaks of insect-borne illness are increasing in Manila and neighbouring provinces and are more common in the rainy season, between May and December. Use repellent during the day, and see a doctor for any fever. Our dengue guide explains the dengue vaccine.
Food, water and swimming
Waterborne and foodborne illness is common, and Smartraveller notes swimmers in some coastal resort areas have reported illness from pollution. Avian influenza occurs in farm birds, so make sure poultry is thoroughly cooked. Floods also raise the risk of leptospirosis, so avoid wading in floodwater.
Medical care
Major private hospitals in Metro Manila are well equipped and internationally accredited, but rural facilities may be limited. Most hospitals need payment up front before treating you, so carry your travel insurance details.
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
Is there malaria in Boracay or Manila?
The CDC lists no malaria in metropolitan Manila and other urban areas. Malaria is listed for Palawan and Mindanao.
When is dengue season in the Philippines?
Insect-borne illnesses are more common in the rainy season, between May and December.
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.