Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Philippines
The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, with views and activities to suit every traveller’s preferences. There are beaches perfect for sun tanning, diving, boating, kayaking, surfing or even kiteboarding.
More inland, there is rock climbing and tons of ziplines to explore. In the cities, travellers will be able to appreciate the Spanish-Filipino architecture, historical buildings and welcoming people.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Philippines?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Philippines
What is the Climate Like in Philippines?
How Safe is Philippines?
Visiting Cebu Island
What Should I Pack To Philippines?
Canadian Embassy to Philippines
Do I Need Vaccines for Philippines?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Philippines. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Philippines: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - 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 in some regions. Especially recommended for those visiting rural areas. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from April to August. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - 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. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Philippines |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| 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 in some regions. Especially recommended for those visiting rural areas. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from April to August. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Routine Vaccinations for Philippines |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| 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. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
The Philippines is home to a few different mosquito-borne diseases. Travellers should consider Japanese encephalitis vaccination and antimalarials for some popular regions of the country. Dengue and chikungunya are present in many areas. Be sure to bring and use insect repellents and bug netting.
Tuberculosis is found in some parts of the Philippines. If you believe you have been exposed, contact a healthcare provider and schedule a TB test as soon as possible.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the Philippines
“I would like to say that from the time I arrived at the clinic and was introduced to the nurse I was treated absolutely great. I had no idea of what I needed for my trip to the Philippines. She explained everything in great detail and made sure I understood all the information she provided and I was extremely impressed with the treatment I received. I look forward to me next appointment with her. Thanks for such a great service your clinics provide..”
“My daughter and I had an excellent experience here as we prepared to go to the Philippines.”
“We had a great experience – very efficient, informative. As we had filled in forms online all our information was ready for us. The nurse went through our files and gave us detailed info on what to expect in the Philippines.”
“Very knowledgeable staff. Lots of great advice for the Philippines even some not relate to our upcoming trip.”
“Our nurse was professional, knowledgeable and skilled. Answered our many questions about the Philippines. Clinic was well organized, on time – pleasant, stress free visit. Thank you.”
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Philippines?
Canadian citizens with Canadian passports going on business or tourism visits not exceeding 30 days do not require a visa to enter the Philippines. All visits for both business and tourism purposes exceeding the maximum of 30 days will require a visa.
Philippines Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Philippines? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Philippines 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 Philippines?
The Philippines has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The temperature generally ranges from 20 to 30 degrees depending on the region. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines include Boracay Island, Palawan, Cebu, Manila, and Siargao Island.
The best time to visit these destinations varies depending on the region. December to May is generally the best time to visit, as the weather is dry and sunny. The rainy season runs from June to November, and typhoons can occur during this period. March to October is the best time to visit Siargao Island, while November to April is the best time to visit Batanes.
Visitors should prepare for hot and humid weather, and pack appropriate clothing and sunscreen. It is also recommended to bring rain gear if visiting during the rainy season. Despite occasional weather challenges, the Philippines is a beautiful and diverse country with plenty to offer. From pristine beaches to cultural landmarks and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
How Safe is Philippines?
The Canadian Government warns against all non-essential travel to the Sulu Archipelago and through the southern Sulu Sea. Travellers should also be very cautious when travelling to Mindanao, as there have been terrorist threats, insurgent activities, and kidnappings.
Pickpocketing, ATM card fraud, and con games are common.
Travellers should avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them. Be cautious while travelling and travel with a partner when possible. Do not accept a ride from a taxi that has already accepted another passenger or use ATMs with unusual coverings attached to the card receiver.
Visiting Cebu Island
Cebu Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines.
Cebu Island has a rich history and culture that is evident in its many historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore the iconic Magellan’s Cross, which marks the spot where Ferdinand Magellan first set foot in the Philippines in 1521.
The island is also known for its beautiful beaches and water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the crystal-clear waters or take a boat tour to explore nearby islands and islets.
Cebu also has a vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine. Visitors can sample a variety of local dishes, including the famous Cebu lechon (roast pig). Many visitors choose to party the night away in the island’s many bars and nightclubs.
A trip to Cebu Island offers visitors the perfect combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and fun.
What Should I Pack for Philippines?
The Philippines is a beautiful and popular destination. It is key to make sure you bring everything with you to fully enjoy your trip.
- Money Belt – Due to the amount of pick-pocketing that occurs, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
- Bug Spray – The climate in the Philippines is hot and humid. This creates a breeding ground for bugs, especially mosquitoes.
- Cash – Because of frequent ATM frauds, it is best to stick to avoid withdrawing cash if possible.
- Umbrella – During the rainy season there will be frequent warm rains and an umbrella will serve to keep you dry during these showers.
Canadian Embassy to Philippines
When travelling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
Embassy of Canada in Manila
Levels 6-8, Tower 2
RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Avenue
Makati City 1200, Philippines
Telephone: (63-2) 857-9000
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