Travel Vaccinations & Advice for Malaysia

When in Malaysia you’ll see a culture mix of Malay, Indian, Chinese and native people all under one roof. The unique food culture, music, traditions, natural beauty etc. have made this place divine.

However, while planning for visiting one of the most exotic destinations in South-East Asia-Malaysia, one thing not to be overlooked is travel vaccination. International destinations require its travellers to be up-to-date with certain vaccinations to prevent the risk of deadly diseases.

Travel Vaccination for Travelling to Malaysia

In order to enter Malaysia, you’ll require the following vaccinations. Usually, boosters taken in childhood and that are against some food and water-borne diseases are required. As per WHO record, the recent outbreak faced by the country was Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in the year 2017. However, since then there is no information regarding the outbreak of such illness again.

Those who are travelling for a short duration, the recommended vaccinations against Tetanus and Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Typhoid. However, if you are in the country for a longer period or if trekking or other activities are in the bucket list you should consider covering the other ailments such as Rabies and Hepatitis B.

The Routine Vaccinations for Malaysia Include

Special Mention

Proof of vaccination is required in case of travelling to some countries (for example yellow fever or polio). This is an official document to be availed as an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before entering or after leaving a particular country. For instance- Saudi Arabia requires proof of vaccination from the visitors arriving from Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages against certain types of meningitis.

Likewise, the Malaysian government requires proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever for travellers coming from the country with a risk of Yellow Fever, especially from African countries. Even if ICVP isn’t required, it is always better to keep a track of the vaccinations that you have taken.  This will help the doctors to treat you well in case of an emergency.

How far in Advance you Should get Vaccinated Before Travelling?

Travellers to Malaysia are recommended to get their vaccines about 4 to 6 weeks before the exact travel date.

Additional Information:

• The risk of Zika virus in Malaysia is higher. As Zika is caused by severe birth defects, it is recommended for pregnant women or couples planning a family to consult with their healthcare providers to consider the risk of Zika if any while travelling to particular parts of Malaysia. Moreover, Zika is a mosquito-borne disease, so you should avoid mosquito bites or take preventive measures.
• Due to its humid climate, mosquitoes tend to be present throughout the year. malaria prophylaxis is recommended depending on your travel plans or itinerary. Moreover, another vector-borne disease Dengue fever occurs all the time. The Dengue cases have been considerably increased in past years, especially in Kuala Lumpur.
• If Rabies is concerned, Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Sarawak in Malaysia have been declared as Rabies infected and if you are travelling to any of them then don’t forget to get your vaccination fixed.
• In case of a medical emergency when abroad, you can dial 999 or 122 for an emergency ambulance. Moreover, always consider travelling with a comprehensive travel insurance plan that comes in handy in the hour of need. In case of a need, you contact your insurance assistance company abroad, in case of availing prompt healthcare.