South East Asia is one of the most popular regions for UK travellers — from the temples of Thailand to the beaches of Bali, the street food of Vietnam to the ruins of Angkor Wat. But before you pack your bags, it's important to make sure you're protected against the health risks common in the region.
Recommended Vaccines for South East Asia
Hepatitis A — Strongly recommended for all travellers. Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food and water, which is a real risk across South East Asia. A single dose provides protection for over 25 years.
Typhoid — Recommended for most travellers, especially if you plan to eat street food or travel outside major cities. Spread through contaminated food and water.
Hepatitis B — Recommended if you may need medical treatment abroad, get a tattoo or piercing, or plan an extended stay. Transmitted through blood and body fluids.
Rabies — Recommended if you'll be visiting rural areas, cycling, or spending time around animals. Stray dogs are common across South East Asia. The pre-exposure course is 3 doses.
Japanese Encephalitis — Recommended for longer stays (over a month), rural travel, or visits during the monsoon season. This mosquito-borne virus is most common in rural rice-farming areas.
DTP Booster — A combined diphtheria, tetanus, and polio booster is recommended every 10 years for travellers.
Malaria Risk
Malaria risk in South East Asia is generally lower than in Africa, but it exists in rural and border areas — particularly in Myanmar border regions, rural Cambodia, and parts of Laos. Most tourist areas (Bangkok, Phuket, Bali, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City) are low-risk. Our pharmacist will assess whether anti-malarial tablets are needed based on your specific itinerary.
Dengue Fever
Dengue is a bigger concern than malaria in most of South East Asia. There is no widely available vaccine for dengue — prevention is through mosquito bite avoidance: DEET-based repellent, long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and air-conditioned or screened accommodation.
When to Get Vaccinated
Ideally 6-8 weeks before travel. Some vaccines like Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis require multiple doses over several weeks. However, if you're travelling at short notice, many vaccines provide useful protection from a single dose — book a same day appointment and we'll prioritise what's most important.
Book Your Travel Consultation
Not sure what you need? Book a free travel consultation at Holborn Clinic. Tell us your destinations and dates, and our pharmacist will create a personalised vaccination plan with transparent pricing — no obligation.
