Travel Vaccines and Advice for Kiribati
Kiribati is a collection of 33 islands with the largest raised coral atoll in the world. It is a country with a rich and unique history and a fantastic variety of water activities.
Kiribati is in the central Pacific Ocean about 4,000 kilometres southwest of Hawaii.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Kiribati?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kiribati
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Kiribati?
What Is the Climate Like in Kiribati?
How Safe Is Kiribati?
Explore the Waters and Islands of Kiribati
What Should I Pack for Kiribati?
Canadian Embassy in Kiribati
Do I Need Vaccines for Kiribati?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Kiribati. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kiribati: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, 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. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate 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 Kiribati |
||
| 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. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate 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 Kiribati |
||
| 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 – Typhoid is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted through animal bites, affecting the nervous system. The rabies vaccine, given before or after potential exposure, prevents the virus from developing into active disease. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups like travellers, while post-exposure shots are crucial after suspected rabies exposure.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travellers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are preventable diseases that require a proactive approach through vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is a powerful tool in stopping the transmission of these viruses. Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks.
Mosquito-borne disease is present on the islands. Dengue can be found in some areas. Protect yourself through use of repellents and netting.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kiribati
Prevent Bug Bites in Kiribati
Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the PHAC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Kiribati
Abroad, food safety entails avoiding street vendors, thorough hand-washing, and opting for well-cooked dishes. Choose sealed bottled or canned beverages. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at reliable restaurants.
Infections To Be Aware of in Kiribati
- Dengue – The PHAC describes dengue fever as a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, presenting symptoms such as rash and joint pain. Prevention strategies focus on reducing mosquito exposure and breeding grounds. Treatment is supportive, emphasizing the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
- Zika – The Zika virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses risks such as birth defects and sexual transmission. Preventing Zika involves using repellent, practicing safe sex, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Kiribati?
A passport which is valid for 6 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A tourist visa is not required for visits less than 28 days. No business visa is required. All passengers must have proof of sufficient funds as well as an onward/ return ticket. A departure tax of AU$20 is charged when leaving Kiribati from the airport.
Kiribati Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Kiribati? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Kiribati and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Kiribati?
The climate in Kiribati is tropical with wet and dry seasons, though they vary by location.
In the west (Tarawa), the dry season is from June to October, with October being the driest month. The wet season is from November to April.
In the east (Kiritimati), the wet period is from January to June, with the dry season being from July to December.
The air temperature is connected to the temperature of the surrounding waters. Temperatures change very little between seasons with heat and humidity being rather constant. That said, rainfall varies each year because of El Nino and La Nina.
How Safe Is Kiribati?
Kiribati is a relatively safe destination. Like most other vacation spots, keep watch of your belongings and avoid scams.
Do not drink water unless it is bottled or sterilized. You should also cook vegetables and peel fruit before eating them.
Though Kiribati is in an area of high seismic activity, the government has limited ability to notify of natural disasters. Remember to go to higher ground in the event of such an emergency.
Driving in Kiribati can be dangerous. Drinking and driving is common in Kiribati, especially on weekends. Be very aware of your surroundings and take extra caution. After heavy rain and high tides some road areas can be flooded.
Explore the Waters and Islands of Kiribati
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Kiribati is a fantastic destination for travellers interested in water activities. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Fishing – Kiribati is well suited for serious anglers. There are bonefish, trevally and blue fin in the waters. Kiritimati Island is recommended for fishing with its hard sand flats perfect for fly fishing.
- Surfing – Many islands have ample opportunities for surfing. Some breaks off of Kiritimati, Tarawa and the Gilberts should only be for experienced surfers. Fanning Island is the best out of the three for surf with consistent swell almost all the year.
- Diving/Snorkeling – Diving and snorkeling adventures are available through accredited dive masters. Make sure you are using an approved provider to avoid any potential mishaps.
What Should I Pack for Kiribati?
Think ahead on what to pack by looking through these suggestions:
- Proper Clothing – Kiribati can often be hot and humid due to its tropical climate and wet season. Be sure to pack for the time of year and the activities you wish to do. Consider items such as sunscreen, water-protective gear, and bathing suits.
- Insect Repellents – With dengue fever in Kiribati, repellents are a must.
- Copies of Travel Documents – In case of lost luggage or theft, having copies of documents is a must.
Canadian Embassy in Kiribati
There is no Canadian government office in Kiribati. Consular assistance may be obtained from the Australian High Commission in Kiribati under the Canada–Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.
High Commission of Australia- Tarawa
Bairiki, Tarawa,
Kiribati
Phone: 686 740 21184
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Kiribati
“Great experience, my nurse was very friendly and knowledgeable. She explained the type of shots required for my trip to Kiribati. Thank you.”
“The lady I had helping me was fantastic. Felt no pressure to get anything I was uncomfortable with. Very knowledgeable and polite. Very gentle with the vaccine. Helped me decide what to get for Kiribati. I’m very grateful.”
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