Travel Vaccines and Advice for Micronesia
Micronesia is in the Western Pacific Ocean, north of Papua New Guinea and south of the Marshall Islands. The country is hot and humid all year long and receives a great deal of rain.
Each island is unique, offering visitors different types of activities. The island Chuuk has colorful reefs full of marine life and over 70 sunken Japanese ships for divers to explore. Kosrae is known for its archaeological sites. There are coral walkways between basalt logs in the Lelu ruins. Pohnpei has large stone buildings that are separated by canals and beautiful waterfalls.
Micronesia is the perfect place for visitors who want to be outside and explore.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Micronesia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Micronesia
Do I Need a Visa for Micronesia?
What Is the Climate Like in Micronesia?
How Safe Is Micronesia?
Visiting Yap: the Island of Stone Money
What Should I Take to Micronesia?
Canadian Embassy in Micronesia
Do I Need Vaccines for Micronesia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Micronesia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Micronesia: 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 Micronesia |
||
| 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 Micronesia |
||
| 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 fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, primarily spread through blood and bodily fluids. The hepatitis B vaccine, given in a series of injections, effectively prevents the infection, offering long-term protection against this potentially life-threatening disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
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 Micronesia
Prevent Bug Bites in Micronesia
Protect yourself from bug bites by wearing long clothing and using PHAC-recommended repellents like DEET or picaridin. Avoid bug-prone areas during peak hours to reduce the risk.
Food and Water Safety in Micronesia
Safeguard your health while abroad by researching local cuisine, avoiding tap water, and practicing hand hygiene. Choose reputable eateries, be cautious with ice, and drink in moderation. A travellers’ diarrhea kit is recommended for travel to all regions throughout the world.
Infections To Be Aware of in Micronesia
- Dengue – Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, significantly impacts global health, affecting up to 400 million people yearly. Without specific antiviral treatments, prevention through avoiding mosquito bites is key. Repellents and nettings are recommended.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, spreads through mosquito bites, sexual contact, and from mother to child during pregnancy. Preventive measures include using repellent, practicing safe sex, and removing mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for Micronesia?
A visa is not required for stays in Micronesia. Your passport must have at least six months validity for entry.
Micronesia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Micronesia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Micronesia 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 Micronesia?
The weather in Micronesia is usually warm and humid, but it can be different depending on which island you are on. Palau, Yap, Chuuk, and Pohnpei are some of the most popular places to visit in Micronesia.
Palau has a lot of rain and is hot all year round. Yap is also hot and rainy all year. Chuuk is hot and rainy too, but it has the most rain from June to December. Pohnpei is hot and rainy too, and it has the most rain from June to December.
It is important to know that there can be dangerous storms in Micronesia from June to December. These storms are called typhoons and they can be very strong. It’s a good idea to check the weather and be careful during this time.
How Safe Is Micronesia?
Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing or bag-snatching, is common in Micronesia. Travellers should avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them. Avoid demonstrations or large gatherings, as they are good opportunities for pick-pocketing. Do not leave valuable items unattended in public areas or in hotel rooms/rental homes.
Sexual assault or assault on visitors does occur in Micronesia, particularly in Chuuk. Only walk in well-lit areas and avoid travelling alone, if possible.
Be sure to have the number of the local police and embassy to call in case of emergency.
Visiting Yap: the Island of Stone Money
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Yap is known for having large, round “coins” around the island. They are made of stone with a hole in the middle and range in size from 3.5 centimetres to 4 metres. The coins can and are actually used in transactions, such as during land sales or marriages. But, some of the larger stones are never moved.
The island was settled by migrants from the Asian mainland. The people are very proud of their history. Men still navigate by the stars and make decisions while chewing on betel nuts. In March, you can see the island celebrate their history and culture through song, dance, and dress. Women don colorful grass skirts and men red loincloths to sing and dance.
Visitors can stay in one of the beautiful resorts. Many of them also cater to diving, meaning you can see the beautiful ocean and mangroves. Some have floating restaurants, heated pools, or dining facilities on old ships.
What Should I Take to Micronesia?
If you plan to visit, there are some things you should pack. Micronesia has a warm and humid climate, so bring lightweight and breathable clothes. You will want to pack a swimsuit too, since there are many beautiful beaches to explore. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and bugs.
Comfortable walking shoes are also important if you plan to explore or hike. You should also bring any necessary medications and a first aid kit. Micronesia uses 120V, so don’t forget to bring a travel adapter and chargers for your electronics. Bring some cash and a credit card, since cash is preferred in many places.
If you plan to go snorkeling, consider bringing your own gear. You’ll definitely want to bring a camera to take pictures of the beautiful scenery, and an underwater camera if you plan to go snorkeling or diving.
Finally, bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Canadian Embassy to Micronesia
There is no resident Canadian government office in the Federated States of Micronesia. You can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Embassy of Australia.
Canadian Embassy Kolonia
H and E Building, 2nd Floor,
Kolonia, Pohnpei, Micronesia
Tel.: 691 320 5448
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Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Micronesia
“The woman at passport health was amazing – professional, knowledgeable, caring. She obviously loves what she does and is great at it. I would absolutely recommend this company.”
“The nurse on duty was very professional. Also very knowledgeable about my vaccination needs for Micronesia.”
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