Travel Vaccines and Advice for Tajikistan
Tajikistan, is located in Central Asia, nestled between Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China.
Tajikistan was once home to many ancient societies dating back as far as the 4th millennium BCE. The area’s deep historical roots and many exceptional outdoor experiences draw in tourists from all over the world.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Tajikistan?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Tajikistan
Do I Need a Visa for Tajikistan?
What is the Climate Like is Tajikistan?
How Safe Is Tajikistan?
Iskanderkul
What Should I Take to Tajikistan?
Canadian Embassy in Tajikistan
Do I Need Vaccines for Tajikistan?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Tajikistan. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Tajikistan: 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 –
High 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 Tajikistan |
||
| 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 | High 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 Tajikistan |
||
| 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 – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by a contagious virus, can have severe symptoms. To prevent its spread, vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine is essential, along with maintaining hygiene practices. This vaccine effectively protects against infection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a lethal viral infection, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Vaccination is paramount for prevention, involving post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for potential exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at heightened risk, such as travellers.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a vital tool in the prevention of this liver infection, recommended for all travellers and essential for healthcare workers and those at higher risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that spread easily. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the PHAC’s top recommendation for preventing these diseases. It offers comprehensive protection against all three viruses, ensuring the safety of both individuals and the community.
Malaria may be a threat depending on your itinerary. Antimalarials may be recommended for Tajikistan. Consult with a travel health specialist before 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 Tajikistan
Prevent Bug Bites in Tajikistan
To ward off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: wear long clothing, use screens, and remove standing water. Opt for EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE for protection. If bitten, wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies. Seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Tajikistan
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.
Altitude Sickness in Tajikistan
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), stems from inadequate oxygen at high elevations, causing symptoms like headaches and nausea. Preventing AMS involves gradual ascent, hydration, and potential medication use. Should AMS symptoms develop, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest, and medical evaluation are essential for recovery and safety.
Infections To Be Aware of in Tajikistan
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
Do I Need a Visa for Tajikistan?
A visa is required for Tajikistan – an e-Visa may be obtained. Visas are issued for up to 45 days and there are different application requirements for each type of visa.
Tajikistan Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Tajikistan? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Tajikistan and Canadian Travel and Tourism
You also must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of issuance of your visa and 60 days beyond the date of your entry into Tajikistan.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What is the Climate Like is Tajikistan?
Tajikistan has three different climate zones.
The western lowlands are cool with temperatures hovering at 15 year-round.
The region near the Pamir mountains experiences dry summers and moderate temperatures.
The mountainous region experiences a mix of humidity and snow. Temperatures are cooler throughout the year.
Summers in Tajikistan can be hot with temperatures over 35. Dust storms occur regularly, especially at lower altitudes.
How Safe Is Tajikistan?
Crime is prevalent in Dushanbe but violent crimes are rare. The most common form of crime reported is sexual harassment of women walking alone. Violent crimes like muggings, armed robberies, and pick-pocketing do occur.
You can take several different precautions to reduce your chances of being targeted. Travel in pairs or groups, day or night. When you’re travelling at night, walk on well-lit walkways. Stay vigilant and always be aware of your surroundings.
Terrorist attacks and demonstrations have occurred in this country in recent years. Violent attacks are typically criminal-on-criminal or criminals targeting security services. Even though civilians are typically not the intended target some do fall victim.
Demonstrations can be unpredictable and turn violent quickly. So, it’s best to avoid them.
Iskanderkul
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Iskanderkul is a lake in Tajikistan that many people visit. The area around the lake has beautiful mountains and hiking trails that people can explore. Visitors can also go swimming or fishing in the lake.
There are interesting things to see nearby, like old drawings on rocks and a traditional village where people live. If you like adventure, you can try activities like rock climbing, horseback riding, or paragliding.
Iskanderkul is a good place for people who want to see natural beauty, try outdoor activities and learn about different cultures.
What Should I Take to Tajikistan?
For your trip to Tajikistan, you’ll want to take the following items.
- Bug Spray – Though the risk is low, malaria is present in Tajikistan. Insect repellent is a necessary part of protection.
- Reliable Bag – During your trip to Tajikistan, you need to have your passport on your person at all times. To ensure that it is safe at all times, you’ll need to have a shoulder bag that cannot be easily stolen. Use one with a zipper so you reduce your risk of being pick-pocketed.
- First-Aid Kit – Tajikistan’s healthcare system is not adequate for all situations. Take any medical supplies you’d need for injuries common to the activities you’ll be partaking in.
Canadian Embassy in Tajikistan
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in Tajikistan, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of Dushanbe.
Non-essential travel to Tajikistan is advised to be avoided due to its proximity to Afghanistan.
Canadian Embassy in Tajikistan
Kabanbay, Batyr Street 13/1,
Astana, Z05H0A5, Kazakhstan
Tel.: 7 (7172) 475 577
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Tajikistan
“The nurse helped me with all the vaccinations and medications I’ll need for my upcoming trip to Tajikistan. She is knowledgeable and friendly and really put me at ease. Highly recommend.”
“I arrived 15 minutes early, the appointment started on time. The Nurse that I meet with was very pleasant and informative. She was very knowledgeable and able to explain things in a simple way for me to understand. The office was clean and tidy. I really appreciated the attention to detail and preparedness, especially for a place like Tajikistan. The on line appointment option was really easy to create and complete. I did it the night before. Thanks.”
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