Travel Vaccines and Advice for India
The Taj Mahal, Hampi, the Himalayas and the Caves of Ajanta are just the beginning for amazing sights in India. For thousands of years, the subcontinent has been the cradle of one of the most amazing cultures to visit.
Every year, tourists from around the globe flock to India to see its amazing sights and sounds. Whether you are a spiritual pilgrim, a business executive or an adventure seeker, India is sure to have something for you.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for India?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in India
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for India?
What Is the Climate Like in India?
How Safe Is India?
What Should I Pack for India?
Where Is the Canadian Embassy in India?
Do I Need Vaccines for India?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for India. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for India: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
A risk for travellers throughout India. Avoid swimming in popular rivers or streams as cholera may be present. Vaccination is recommended for some travellers. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
May be required if arriving from countries with active transmission. Recommended for some travellers to the region. Single adult booster recommended. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended for all regions except: Dadra, Daman, Diu, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Meghalaya, Nagar Haveli, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Sikkim. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for India |
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| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | A risk for travellers throughout India. Avoid swimming in popular rivers or streams as cholera may be present. Vaccination is recommended for some travellers. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | May be required if arriving from countries with active transmission. Recommended for some travellers to the region. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended for all regions except: Dadra, Daman, Diu, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Meghalaya, Nagar Haveli, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Sikkim. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for India |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
- Cholera – Cholera is a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, primarily spread through contaminated water. It and causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. The cholera vaccine provides long-term protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis, a mosquito-borne virus causing neurological issues, can be prevented through mosquito control, protective clothing, and vaccination. Vaccination is highly recommended for individuals in endemic areas or travellers.
- Rabies – Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection transmitted primarily through bites and scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the key to prevention, offering pre-exposure protection to high-risk individuals and post-exposure treatment for those exposed to rabies.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
Malaria in India
Malaria is present throughout India, except for regions over 2,000 metres elevation. Travellers are generally advised to take antimalarials no matter their destination or itinerary in the country.
If you are travelling to India, make sure you are protected. Visit your local Passport Health to receive a comprehensive consultation on what you will need to stay safe. Book your appointment online now or call us at and make sure your dream trip doesn’t become a nightmare.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in India
Prevent Bug Bites in India
In case of bug bites, cleanse the area, use anti-itch treatments, and resist scratching to prevent infection. Seek medical help for severe reactions or if symptoms of vector-borne diseases emerge post-bite.
Food and Water Safety in India
Abroad, practice food safety by avoiding street vendors, washing hands thoroughly, and choosing well-cooked meals. Opt for bottled or canned drinks with unbroken seals. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by practicing hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Altitude Sickness in India
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), manifests at high elevations due to insufficient oxygen intake. To prevent AMS, ascend slowly, hydrate adequately, and consider medication. If symptoms arise—headaches, nausea—descend to lower altitudes immediately for rest and recovery.
Infections To Be Aware of in India
- Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, a contagious virus affecting birds and humans, can be prevented through poultry vaccination, enhanced biosecurity on farms, proper poultry handling and cooking, vigilant outbreak surveillance, and public education on the virus and its transmission.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. Symptoms can escalate from mild fever to life-threatening conditions. Preventing mosquito bites is key to avoidance, with recommendations including repellent and netting use.
- Leishmaniasis – The transmission of leishmaniasis primarily occurs through infected sand fly bites, with other routes of transmission possible. Preventing the disease involves minimizing exposure to sand flies. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
- Zika – Zika, a virus carried by Aedes mosquitoes, can pose risks, particularly for pregnant women. Preventing Zika requires using mosquito repellent, practicing safe sex, and getting rid of mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for India?
Nationals of all countries, including Canadian citizens with a valid passport, require a visa. E-visas take 3-10 days to process and are valid for 2 trips up to 60 days’ total. The Indian government now allows Canadian citizens to apply for simple tourist and business visas without having to send in a passport.
India Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to India? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
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| Tourist Visa | |
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| Business Visa | |
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| Vaccinations | |
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Sources: Embassy of India and Canadian Travel and Tourism
What Is the Climate Like in India?
India is a big country, the weather can be different depending on where you go. Here’s some information about the weather in some of India’s most popular places:
- Goa: Goa is a beach place in India. The best time to go is from November to February when the weather is dry and comfortable.
- Delhi: Delhi is a city in India. The best time to go is from October to March when the weather is good.
- Mumbai: Mumbai is a city in India. The best time to go is from November to February when it’s cooler.
- Jaipur: Jaipur is a city in India. The best time to go is from October to March when the weather is good.
- Agra: Agra is a city in India. The best time to go is from November to March when the weather is good.
- Kerala: Kerala is a place in India with lots of rain. The best time to go is from September to March when it’s dry.
Remember that the weather can change every year, so it’s always a good idea to check before you go.
How Safe Is India?
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
India is generally safe, but is still a developing country in many ways. Try to avoid the Indian-Pakistani border, as growing tensions have led to a less safe situation.
Petty crime, especially theft is common. This happens mostly in trains and buses. pick-pocketing is known to occur in some tourist areas. Violent crime is traditionally uncommon, though there has been a slight increase in recent years.
Scamming has become more common in many popular areas. Be especially careful in airports and train stations. If an offer for cheap transportation or hotel rooms seems too good, it probably is. Only use well-known travel agencies when booking your trip and planning activities in-country.
LGBT individuals will want to be especially careful as laws on homosexuality are unclear. While prosecution is rare, LGBT visitors may wish to avoid drawing attention.
What Should I Pack for India?
Packing for India can be a bit tricky, as the country is different from many popular travel destinations:
- Pack light– Moving from place to place in India can be a bit tricky. Many forms of transportation have a tight fit and having something you can easily haul around is key. Bringing an extra backpack isn’t a bad idea either as a purse or small bag may not be enough to carry water, an umbrella and similar items.
- Prepare for weather– Be sure to pack according to what season you’ll be in the country. Where you are headed is also a key factor as the Himalayas are a much cooler region.
- Wear the right footwear– You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking (or even standing) in India. Make sure your shoes are up for the trip, your feet will thank you.
- Bring a complete first-aid kit– The PHAC has a complete list of recommended health items which can be found here. Some notable items include: sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer and diarrhea medicine like DiaResQ or other remedies.
Where Is the Canadian Embassy in India?
The Canadian Embassy in India is located at:
High Commission of Canada in New Delhi
7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri,
New Delhi 110 021, India
Telephone: 91 (11) 4178-2000
Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, India is an absolutely amazing destination. From the Himalyas to the coast of the Indian Ocean, the country’s unique culture and feel has something for every type of traveller.
To learn more about what you can do to prepare for an Indian trip, visit your local Passport Health clinic. Book your appointment today by calling or scheduling online now.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for India
“I went to the clinic prior to a trip to India to determine what vaccines were recommended. The service I received was on-time, friendly and very thorough. I was able to complete some of the vaccinations immediately which was very helpful. I’d definitely recommend this clinic and I have no hesitation about returning prior to other trips.”
“It’s a great place as I was explained in detailed for each dose and medicine require while travelling to India. Its definitely help me ease my fear and help me understand the necessity.Now I am ready to travel with my all require medicine and well prepared. thanks.”
“In preparation for our trip to India, we visited the clinic in Oakville, the is very knowledgeable, professional yet friendly. It was a good experience but the cost was much more than we had expected.”
“Professional, organized, and thorough. I was able to get all the information I needed for travel to India, each items was checked against known allergies, I received all the vaccines and medications I needed all in the same place. Absolutely wonderful!”
“After reading positive reviews I chose Passport Health to help me prepare for my trip to India. I was very pleased by their service, knowledge and am very satisfied with their recommendations. I look forward to a safe and worry-free trip.”
“A family of four planning a trip to India with knowledge of our children’s vaccination history but not our own. We were given lots of time in our appointment to learn about the vaccinations needed for our trip and ask questions.”
“My wife and I are travelling to India in the New Year so of course we knew we had to receive some type of medical protection. We looked this up on the Web and seeing that the site was very detailed we decided to make an appointment. The medical questionare was easy to complete prior to our visit. Once at the location we were greeted by our designated RPN. We found her guide through the requirements was easy to understand and made things very understandable for us. She was friendly, and very professional in her approach and was very interested in our trip to India. We could not asked for better treatment . Quite refreshing to find someone of her caliber these days!!! Thanks for a great experience.”
“I was given a last minute flight to India and showed up on Saturday with no appointment needing vaccinations. They were all booked but the nurse, Patricia, took care of me in the midst of her crazy day. Very professional. Concern for clients.”
“I loved meeting with our nurse, she was very helpful and kept me at ease during my appointment. She provided me with a lot of information I need on vaccines AND on things like Visa, consulates, tourist attractions etc in India before my trip.”
“I was given very thorough and efficient service in preparation for my trip to India, prior to my appointment, during and following.”
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