What vaccines do I need for Thailand?

Recommended by the CDC: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis (for rural or long-stay travelers, especially May through October), Rabies (for adventure travelers or long-stay).

Is tap water safe to drink in Thailand?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Thailand. Drink bottled or treated water throughout your trip, including in resort areas.

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Southeast Asia

Thailand Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Thailand is a popular travel destination with diverse landscapes ranging from bustling Bangkok to tropical islands and northern hill tribes. Travelers face risks from mosquito-borne diseases, foodborne illness, and waterborne pathogens. Healthcare quality is excellent in Bangkok and major cities but varies significantly in rural areas. Dengue transmission occurs year-round throughout the country.

Food Safety: Moderate Risk Tap Water: Unsafe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Thailand

CDC Recommended

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Japanese Encephalitis (for rural or long-stay travelers, especially May through October)
Rabies (for adventure travelers or long-stay)

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Thailand

Malaria Risk

Low risk in most tourist areas. Moderate risk in forested border regions near Myanmar, Cambodia, and Malaysia, and rural areas of Kanchanaburi, Tak, and Mae Hong Son provinces.

Food and Water Safety

Moderate Risk Tap water: not safe to drink

Street food is popular and generally safe if freshly prepared and served hot. Avoid raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, ice from unknown sources, and unpasteurized dairy. Stick to bottled or purified water.

Key Health Tips for Thailand

Use DEET-based insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk to prevent dengue and Japanese encephalitis.
Drink only bottled or boiled water; avoid ice unless you know its source.
Consider malaria prophylaxis only if traveling to high-risk border regions — not needed for Bangkok or beach destinations.
Get rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis if planning outdoor activities, cave exploration, or working with animals.

Disease Risks in Thailand

Official Resources

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