Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and tropical serenity? Vanuatu is a favourite destination for Australian travellers seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences, and warm island hospitality.
Before you go, make sure your health is protected. At Walker Street Doctors, we offer personalised travel care to help you enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Recommended Vaccines for Vanuatu
Vaccination isn't just about ticking a box—it’s about staying well, even when plans change or unexpected situations arise. We recommend the following for all travellers to Vanuatu:
Routine Vaccines
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Tetanus/Diphtheria (ADT Booster): A simple but important protection. Boosters are usually due every 10 years.
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Polio: Ensure full immunisation, particularly if you missed doses in childhood.
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Influenza and Pneumococcal: Recommended for those over 65 or with underlying health conditions.
Travel-Specific Vaccines
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Hepatitis A: Transmitted through contaminated food or water. Recommended for all durations of stay.
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Hepatitis B: Important for travellers who may:
- Require medical care overseas
- Have sexual contact with locals
- Stay longer than 6 months
Now routinely recommended for all infants and adolescents in Australia.
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Typhoid: Also spread through food and water—especially relevant for longer stays or travel outside resort areas.
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Malaria: Present in all areas of Vanuatu, and chloroquine-resistant. Malaria is a serious, sometimes deadly illness. Antimalarial medication is essential.
Insect-Borne Illnesses
In addition to malaria, Vanuatu has several other mosquito-borne diseases. There are no vaccines for these, so prevention is vital:
Dengue
- Common in the region, with outbreaks occurring periodically. Symptoms include fever, rash, and joint pain.
Ross River Virus & Murray Valley Encephalitis
- Rare, but possible. These can cause fatigue, fever, and long-lasting joint symptoms.
Filariasis
- A parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes, sometimes asymptomatic but potentially serious over time.
To reduce your risk:
- Use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Wear long, light-coloured clothing
- Stay in screened or air-conditioned accommodation
- Sleep under a mosquito net if needed
Feeling Unwell After Travel?
Malaria symptoms can appear weeks—or even months—after travel. If you return from Vanuatu and develop:
- Fever
- Chills
- Flu-like symptoms
Seek urgent medical care and tell your doctor you’ve travelled to a malaria-risk area, even if your trip was weeks ago.
Book Ahead for Peace of Mind
At Walker Street Doctors, we offer:
- Pre-travel health consultations
- Malaria prevention advice and prescriptions
- Vaccines and documentation for travel insurance
- Tailored advice based on your itinerary and health status
For the best protection, book your travel health appointment 2–4 weeks before departure.
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