From the highland forests of Borneo to bustling Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is a vibrant blend of culture, cuisine, and biodiversity. But tropical travel also brings health risks—especially in rural or water-rich areas—so it’s important to prepare well.
At Walker Street Doctors, we offer evidence-based, compassionate travel advice to ensure you explore safely and confidently.
Vaccination Recommendations for Malaysia
We recommend the following vaccines for all durations of stay:
Routine Vaccines
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Tetanus/Diphtheria (ADT booster): Every 10 years.
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Polio: Ensure you're fully vaccinated—required for all travellers to Malaysia.
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Influenza & Pneumococcal: Strongly advised for travellers over 65 or with chronic health conditions.
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Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR): Vital, especially with increased measles cases in 2025.
Infants 6–11 months should receive an early MMR dose prior to travel.
Travel-Specific Vaccines
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Hepatitis A: Spread through food and water—essential.
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Hepatitis B: Recommended for all travellers, particularly if:
- Staying >6 months
- Receiving medical care abroad
- Working in healthcare or having sexual contact with locals
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Typhoid: Highly recommended due to antibiotic-resistant strains in the region.
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Japanese Encephalitis: Consider if:
- Staying >4 weeks in rural/agricultural areas
- Visiting during monsoon season or known outbreaks
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Rabies: Particularly if visiting Sarawak, or if you’ll be:
- Working with animals
- Cycling, trekking, or staying in remote areas
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Cholera: Considered for travellers at higher risk (e.g., immunocompromised, with inflammatory bowel disease, HIV, or cardiac disease).
Even with rabies pre-exposure vaccination, post-exposure treatment is still required if bitten or scratched.
Insect-Borne Illnesses
Malaysia has several mosquito- and insect-borne diseases, especially in rural and coastal regions.
Dengue – High Risk (Jan 2024 Update)
- Transmitted by day-biting mosquitoes
- Common in both urban and rural areas
Chikungunya
- Symptoms can overlap with dengue but may cause prolonged joint pain
Zika
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Pregnant women should not travel to Malaysia due to risk of birth defects
- Women trying to conceive should strictly follow mosquito precautions
- Zika can also be sexually transmitted—condoms or abstinence are advised during and after travel
Japanese Encephalitis, Filariasis, Plague
- Rare, but prevention is essential in rural and flood-prone areas
To prevent bites:
- Use repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
- Sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms
- Use bed nets if required
Water & Food Safety
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Schistosomiasis risk: Do not swim in freshwater lakes or rivers
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Leptospirosis risk: Avoid kayaking or wading in flooded or muddy water
- Drink only sealed bottled water
- Brush teeth with bottled or boiled water
- Avoid fountain drinks and ice unless known to be safe
- Choose hot, well-cooked food; peel your own fruit and avoid raw seafood
Hand hygiene matters:
- Wash hands before eating, after using the toilet, or caring for someone unwell
- Carry alcohol-based hand sanitiser
Travel Safety
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Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury
- Always wear seatbelts, avoid nighttime driving, and be cautious on motorbikes
After You Return
If you develop fever, rash, joint pain, or flu-like symptoms in the weeks or months after returning:
- Seek medical care promptly
- Inform your doctor about your travel history, particularly if you visited malaria-risk or dengue-affected areas
Travel Health Services at Walker Street Doctors
We offer:
- Personalised vaccine and medication planning
- Insect bite prevention kits and water safety advice
- Rabies and JE risk assessments based on your route
- Letters for insurance, border entry, and medications
- A calm, comprehensive appointment experience tailored to your itinerary
Book your appointment 2–4 weeks before departure for best protection.
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