Travel Vaccines and Advice for Taiwan
A small island off the coast of China, Taiwan is a destination known for its tropical temperatures and gorgeous landscapes. It boasts cultural attractions in its many beautiful cities as well as many stunning views in its many forests and national parks. This small but versatile island has something to offer to every type of traveller.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Taiwan
Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan?
What Is the Climate Like in Taiwan?
How Safe Is Taiwan?
Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port
What Should I Pack for Taiwan?
Canadian Embassy in Taiwan
Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Taiwan. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Taiwan: hepatitis A, polio, 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:
- 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. - 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. Most common May to October, throughout island. - 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 Taiwan |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| 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. Most common May to October, throughout island. |
| 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 Taiwan |
||
| 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
- 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.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, affecting the nervous system. Prevention strategies include mosquito control, protective clothing, and vaccination, with vaccines available in two forms: inactivated and live attenuated.
- Rabies – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travellers.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus leads to liver infection through contact with infected fluids. The most effective safeguard is the hepatitis B vaccine, administered in a series of shots that stimulate the body to produce antibodies, providing long-term immunity. It is crucial for infants and those at an increased risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Taiwan is free of rabies in dogs, but wild animal rabies (like in bats) is still present. Rabies vaccination is recommended if working directly with wildlife in Taiwan.
Dengue and chikungunya are both present in Taiwan. The mosquito-borne infections pose a threat to travellers of all kinds. Make sure you bring repellent and netting for your trip.
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 Taiwan
Prevent Bug Bites in Taiwan
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 Taiwan
When travelling, prioritize food safety with PHAC’s advice: consume fully cooked foods, avoid raw seafood, and pick clean eateries. Opt for bottled drinks, exercise caution with ice, and practice responsible alcohol consumption. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary conditions.
Altitude Sickness in Taiwan
Avoid altitude sickness by gradually ascending to high elevations, allowing your body to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and consider medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms such as headaches or dizziness occur, descend promptly to lower altitudes and seek medical assistance if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Taiwan
- Avian/Bird Flu – Preventing avian flu requires a multifaceted approach, including poultry vaccination, rigorous biosecurity practices, safe handling and cooking of poultry products, early outbreak detection, and educating the public about the virus’s risks and prevention methods.
- 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.
Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan?
Canadian citizens using Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter Taiwan for tourism or business stays less than ninety days.
Taiwan Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Taiwan? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Taiwan 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 Taiwan?
Taiwan’s climate varies between subtropical and tropical. But, the whole country is likely to have high temperatures and a humid climate for much of the year. Summers can be excessively hot and humid, with heavy rainfall and even typhoons. November to April has milder weather and milder temperatures. This is the most popular time for tourism.
- Taipei – In the capital city of Taipei, located in the northeast, rain is a common occurrence. Even in the winter months Taipei often receives abundant rainfall. In winter, the temperatures usually will not dip below 10. Summer temps can be over 30.
- Tainan – A city located in the south of the island, Tainan experiences temperatures like Taipei. But, Tainan receives much less rainfall outside of monsoon season. This means that its winters and springs are much drier.
- Yushan – The city of Yushan is located in central Taiwan, in the mountains. Due to the altitude, Yushan has much colder temperatures than sea-level tropical cities. Temperatures often dip below freezing in the winters. Summers rarely reach higher than 20.
How Safe Is Taiwan?
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Taiwan is a safe country with low crime rates and good healthcare, but travellers should still take some precautions to stay safe. It’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions and carry identification and emergency contact information. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and use caution when crossing the street.
Taiwan can be hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. In the rainy season, be prepared with rain gear and be aware of the risk of flooding and landslides in some areas.
Public transportation is a safe and convenient way to get around, especially in urban areas. Be careful of scams and pick pocketing, and always be cautious when exchanging money or purchasing items from street vendors or markets.
Stay informed by keeping up with the latest news and travel advisories, and register with your embassy or consulate in case of an emergency.
Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port
Most visitors will visit Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. But few travel out to Kaohsiung, a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of the island. Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s largest port city, and it offers all the attractions of a busy, bustling city with cultural and historical jewels.
Some of the most well-known attractions in Kaohsiung are the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The largest Confucian temple in Taiwan is also nearby.
If you want to experience the natural beauty of Taiwan, only an hour and a half drive from Kaohsiung is the Maolin National Scenic Area. This region has stunning forests, gorges, and waterfalls.
What Should I Pack for Taiwan?
Many North American brands of goods and clothing are available in Taiwan, but it’s still a good idea to be prepared. When going to Taiwan, it’s always important to pack the essentials, such as:
- Rain Gear – With the unpredictable weather in the country, especially during the summer, a good umbrella and raincoat are a must.
- Light Layers – The climate in Taiwan tends to be very warm, so be sure to bring clothing that can keep you cool. But, the temperature can drop at nights, so a few outer layers are a good idea. If you’ll be in the mountains in winter, you’ll probably want some heavy layers too.
- Mosquito Repellent – Because Taiwan is a tropical island, mosquitoes are common. These insects often carry diseases of various types. Make sure you’re protected with repellents.
- Hand Sanitizer and Tissues – You may find that some public restrooms in Taiwan are missing some basic necessities, such as hand soap or toilet paper. Be prepared for this by bringing a bottle of Purell and a pack of tissues everywhere you go.
Canadian Embassy in Taiwan
Once in Taiwan, the information for consular services is:
Trade Office of Canada in Taiwan
6F, Hua-Hsin (Citibank building),
No. 1 SongZhi Road,
Xinyi District,
Taipei 11047, Taiwan
Tel.: 886 (2) 8723-3000
Canada maintains an unofficial relationship with Taiwan. The Trade Office of Canada provides many of the same services as an embassy would.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Taiwan
“Our nurse explained everything very well about health issues in Taiwan and advised us on the proper medication that we needed. She was very gentle in administering the needles. Would highly recommend.”
“Kathrine is great! Extremely personable and knowledgeable”
“I wasn’t certain of the vaccination requirements for my trip to Taiwan. The nurse was knowledgeable and explained in detail the steps I needed to take if I became ill. She was patient and responded to all my questions.”
“It was an excellent first consultation in preparation for my trip to Taiwan – friendly and informative. I received everything I needed.”
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