There are no strict Thailand vaccination requirements before entry to the country. However, there are recommended vaccinations for Thailand tourists from Australia to ensure maximum protection against potential health risks. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organisation (WHO) recommend the following travel vaccinations for Thailand visitors:

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection that causes an itchy, blister-like rash that initially appears on the chest, back, and face, and then spreads over the entire body.

Most individuals who received 2 doses of varicella vaccine will be protected from the virus for life. The first dose is usually administered from age 12 through 15 months, while the second dose is given from age 4 through 6 years old. In Australia under the National Immunisation Schedule only 1 vaccine is given which does not offer the immunity afforded by having two vaccines however it is still quite effective.

Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (dTpa)

dTpa vaccine protects individuals against these three diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Diphtheria is a life-threatening bacterial infection that causes severe breathing difficulties, congestive heart failure, kidney and nerve damage, as well as other health problems depending on which nerves are affected. Tetanus is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium found mostly in rusty tools like nails, barbed wires, and faeces of animals and humans. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a respiratory disease that causes persistent dry cough with a ‘whoop’ sound in between long, uncontrollable coughing fits.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) recommended that adolescents and adults over 10 should get one dose of the dTpa vaccine, then a booster dose of Td (tetanus and diphtheria) every 10 years to strengthen immunity. Women are also advised to get a dose of the dTpa vaccine during each pregnancy to minimise the risk of pertussis in infants. [1]

Flu (Influenza)

Influenza is usually transmitted through an infected individual’s coughs and sneezes, causing fever, cough, headache, and other symptoms.

Studies suggest that the effectiveness of the flu vaccine decreases with each passing month. [2] Additionally, influenza viruses are constantly changing. The vaccine you previously received may not protect you through the next flu season. It’s recommended to keep up-to-date on your flu shots and get vaccinated before the influenza season starts. 

Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccine prevents individuals from three serious viral infections: measles, mumps, and rubella. Measles is a contagious airborne disease that causes rashes, fever, and a runny nose. Mumps is caused by a paramyxovirus, which affects the glands that produce saliva. Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection that can cause red rashes, swollen lymph glands behind the ears and neck, mild fever, and headache.

While the MMR vaccine usually provides lifetime protection against mumps, some individuals may have decreased immunity later in life. If you are at risk due to an outbreak, an additional dose may be required. Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles and 88% effective against mumps.

Polio

Also called poliomyelitis, polio is a viral infection that primarily affects the nerves in the spinal cord or brain stem. It can cause paralysis in certain limbs.

The CDC states that a complete series of immunisations can highly offer immunity for many years. The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends that adults at higher risk of exposure to polio get the inactivated poliovirus (IPV) vaccine or an IPV-containing vaccine every 10 years. If you are going to a country with active polio cases a booster vaccine may be recommended.[3] 

COVID-19

COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease that spreads through respiratory droplets or airborne particles. Most people infected with the virus experience mild to moderate respiratory illness, with common symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste and smell, and nausea.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends the Pfizer vaccine for people aged 16 to 59 and AstraZeneca for individuals aged 18 to 59. Here’s how long each vaccine’s effectiveness lasts: [4] 

• Moderna: about 6 months
• Pfizer-BioNTech: about 6 months
• Johnson & Johnson: about 8 months
• Oxford-AstraZeneca: about 3 months
• Novavax: about 6 months

Hepatitis A

Travellers who consume contaminated foods or drinks, particularly in locations with poor sanitation, can contract the hepatitis A virus. This causes inflammation of the liver, which can result in mild or severe illnesses.

Individuals who have completed a two-dose series of hepatitis A vaccines are estimated to be protected against the virus for at least 25 years (adults) and 14-20 years (children).

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B often doesn’t produce symptoms. However, it can sometimes cause jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea. This can be contracted from exposure to infected blood, semen, or other bodily fluids.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that babies should receive the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours after birth, followed by two or three doses at least four weeks apart. Booster shots are usually not required for individuals who have completed the three-dose vaccination series. The hepatitis B vaccine protects against the virus for at least 20 years. 

Japanese Encephalitis (JE)

JE virus is a mosquito-borne virus related to dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile virus, and is the leading cause of viral encephalitis or brain inflammation in Asian countries. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists Thailand as one of the areas at risk of the JE virus, with peak season lasting from May to October. There have also been several traveller cases reported in recent years from resorts and coastal areas of southern Thailand. Most adults will remain protected against the JE virus for up to 5 years after being vaccinated.

Typhoid

Typhoid vaccine is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water. The virus caused by typhoid multiplies into the bloodstream, which can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated promptly.

A single dose of injectable typhoid vaccine offers 3 years of protection for individuals aged 2 years and over. For mixed vaccines against both typhoid and hepatitis A, a single dose gives 3 years of protection for individuals aged 16 years and over.

Potential Health Risks for Thailand Travel

Apart from vaccine-preventable diseases, there are also potential health risks in Thailand that travellers should be aware of:

Mosquito-borne Diseases

Dengue is endemic throughout Thailand, with peak months occurring during the rainy season, which usually runs from June to September. Malaria is also considered a risk in some parts of Thailand, particularly in the cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai, and on the islands of Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Samui, and Phuket. [5]

Cases of Zika virus have also been reported, although no evidence suggests recent outbreaks. Travellers who are pregnant or are trying to conceive should take precautions due to the risk of birth defects in infants born to people infected with Zika during pregnancy. To minimise the risk of getting mosquito bites, use bug spray and avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk). Discuss with your travel doctor about malaria medications that can be used to prevent malaria.

Pollution-related Illnesses

Several cities in Northern Thailand, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Lampang, are cited as among the world’s most “unhealthy” air. The air quality can worsen significantly during the dry season, which typically runs from November to March. This period, often marked by high levels of smog and haze, may amplify symptoms of those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions. 

If you are prone to respiratory issues, take extra precautions by wearing high-quality, well-fitted masks. It’s also advisable to check local air quality monitoring apps or websites and plan your outdoor activities accordingly.

Food-related Illnesses

Traveller’s diarrhoea (TD) is one of the common food-related illnesses in Thailand. It is usually caused by consuming contaminated foods or drinks, especially in environments with poor hygiene and sanitation. If you experience stomach upsets or diarrhoea, stay hydrated and take rehydration salts to replenish the fluids and minerals your body has lost. If problems persist, seek medical attention.

Or Call (07) 5599 1400

Ensure safe travels by scheduling your Thailand vaccinations weeks prior to your trip. At Coolangatta Medical Centre, we offer personalised travel health consultations and vaccinations to protect you from potential health risks. Book your appointment today to stay protected and enjoy a worry-free travel experience.

Our team of Travel Doctors in Gold Coast share their expertise in vaccinations required by law for entry to a country as well as the specific precautions needed and the vaccinations recommended for general protection against diseases. Always seek medical advice from travel doctors at least a month before your trip to learn more about the necessary vaccinations required before visiting your destination.

• Dr Mary McDevitt

• Dr Kerrie Davis

• Dr Michaelia Verbeek

• Dr Russell O’Brien

At Coolangatta Medical Centre, we also offer many other specialised care for vaccinations and overall family health care to keep you and your loved ones healthy. Book your appointment to visit our clinic at Gold Coast.

• Children’s Vaccines
• Extensive Vaccinations
• Family Medicine
• Drug & Alcohol Testing

To see more of our other medical services, click here.

Full fee upfront is payable on the day of your appointment and will be processed with a credit/debit card token provided at the time of booking.

Medicare rebate is processed for you on your behalf by the administration team and will go back into the account that you have nominated with Medicare within 24 to 48 hours. For more information about Medicare rebates, see our FAQs page.

Out of pocket fee is the amount of money that you will be out of pocket after Medicare has processed your rebate.

Coolangatta Medical Centre services many local communities on the Gold Coast as well as Northern NSW. If you live in or nearby the following suburbs, Coolangatta Medical Centre is easily visited from the location:

• Tweed Heads
• Tweed Heads South
• Tweed Heads West
• Bilinga
• Cobaki Lakes
• Tugun