Travel Vaccines and Advice for Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island is an external territory of the Commonwealth of Australia. It is located in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and New Zealand.
The population of Norfolk Island is over 1,500 with the island spanning 415 square kilometres. Most of the population are descendants of the Bounty Mutineers, a ship from the late 1700’s, and Pitcairn leaders. Other parts of the population are migrants from Australia and New Zealand.
The main languages spoken on Norfolk Island include English and Norfuk (a Creole language).
The largest cities on Norfolk Island include Burnt Pine and Kingston.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Norfolk Island?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Norfolk Island
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Norfolk Island?
What Is the Climate Like in Norfolk Island?
How Safe Is Norfolk Island?
Emily Bay
What Should I Take to Norfolk Island?
Canadian Embassy in Norfolk Island
Do I Need Vaccines for Norfolk Island?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Norfolk Island. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Norfolk Island: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Excludes the Galapagos in Ecuador and Misiones in Argentina. - 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 Norfolk Island |
||
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Excludes the Galapagos in Ecuador and Misiones in Argentina. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Norfolk Island |
||
| 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 spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread via infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and vaccination. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, offering strong and enduring immunity against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
The medical facilities on Norfolk Island are very good and emergency services are available 24-hours a day.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Norfolk Island
Prevent Bug Bites in Norfolk Island
To fend off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: cover up with long clothing, use repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and avoid bug-heavy areas during dawn and dusk. Protect your sleep with insect-repellent-treated bed nets.
Food and Water Safety in Norfolk Island
Stay healthy overseas by favoring cooked and hot dishes, reputable eateries, and practicing good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages and use caution with tap water. Enjoy hot drinks and alcohol responsibly. To steer clear of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these strategies: eat safe foods, drink treated water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be discerning about local cuisine.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Norfolk Island?
As a territory of Australia, Norfolk Island follows similar entry rules. An Electronic Travel Authority is required for entry of all types. This can be completed online before arrival. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is recommended.
Norfolk Island Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Norfolk Island? | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Australia and Government of Canada
What Is the Climate Like in Norfolk Island?
Norfolk Island is in the South Pacific Ocean. It has a nice climate with mild temperatures all year. In summer, from December to February, temperatures are usually between 20 and 25 degrees. In winter, from June to August, it’s cooler, with temperatures between 15 and 20. Rain happens throughout the year, but it’s wetter from April to August.
Check a weather website or app like before your visit for up-to-date weather information.
How Safe Is Norfolk Island?
Crime on Norfolk is low, but it’s always important to practice basic safety precautions.
While driving, drive on the left side of the road and always wear a seat belt.
Swimming is illegal in post parts of Norfolk Island as it is surrounded by a protected coral reef. The waves can be hazardous. If you’re planning on swimming, you may do so at Emily Bay.
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime if a crime should be committed against you.
Emily Bay
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
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Emily Bay is a beach on Norfolk Island that is a popular spot for tourists. The beach is very pretty and the water is clear, making it a great place to go swimming and snorkeling. It’s also very safe for families with young children.
Visitors can see lots of different kinds of fish and even sea turtles while snorkeling. There is also a place for picnics with tables and barbecues. Visitors can bring their own food or buy snacks and drinks from a nearby kiosk.
Emily Bay is surrounded by trees that provide shade and make it a peaceful place to relax. People can go for walks along the beach or take a hike to see some historic sites, like the ruins of an old observation post from World War II.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to spend a day on Norfolk Island, Emily Bay is definitely worth a visit.
What Should I Take to Norfolk Island?
When packing for a trip to Norfolk Island, be sure to take these items:
- Clothes: Bring light clothes like shorts, t-shirts, and dresses for warm days. Take a light jacket and long-sleeve shirts for cooler weather. Pack walking shoes, sandals, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and a light sweater.
- Personal items: Take travel-sized toiletries, a toothbrush, medicines and a small first-aid kit. Also, bring insect repellent to keep bugs away.
- Electronics: Pack a camera or smartphone, a portable charger, and a power adapter if needed. Bring a waterproof case for your gadgets.
- Travel documents: Bring your passport, visa and copies of important documents. Carry cash and credit cards.
- Other items: A reusable water bottle, snorkeling gear, a foldable daypack, a travel pillow and an eye mask can be useful. Carry a book or something to keep you entertained.
Check the weather before your trip and pack accordingly. Pack light and leave room for souvenirs.
Canadian Embassy on Norfolk Island
If travellers face issues or have concerns while travelling throughout the country, contact or visit the Canadian Embassy.
There is no Canadian embassy in Norfolk Island, but it is served by the embassy in Australia.
High Commission of Canada in Canberra
Commonwealth Avenue,
Canberra ACT, Australia 2600
Telephone: (61) 2 6270 4000
Email: cnbra@international.gc.ca
If you have any questions about travelling to Norfolk Island or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Norfolk Island
“Yesterday morning we visited the Roswell, GA. location for vaccinations for our trip to Norfolk Island. The lady who assisted was very helpful and encouraging. Had a wonderful time with here.”
“The nurse did an excellent job reviewing our options for Norfolk Island and helping us make the right choices. She was very thorough and patient… and comforting to a very nervous 17 year old!”
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