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 peculiar, 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?
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?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Micronesia
Do I Need Vaccines for Micronesia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Micronesia. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Micronesia: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Micronesia |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Dengue and chikungunya are in Micronesia. Take steps to prevent them including using mosquito repellents and netting.
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.
Do I Need a Visa for Micronesia?
Micronesia does require visas, but offers on arrival options. These visas periods of stay can vary but are extendable an additional 30 days to no more than 90 days. Passports must be valid 120 days from the date of entry.
Micronesia Entry Requirements |
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Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Micronesia? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ||
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Micronesia and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in Micronesia?
Micronesia has a warm, tropical climate. There are two different seasons: dry and rainy. The rainy season lasts from April to December. Temperatures range are usually around 25 degrees. Typhoons can occur from July to mid-November.
- Weno – Weno is located on Chuuk and is the largest city in the country. The warmest month is October, with temperatures at around 25 degrees. January and February are cooler, but, temperatures only dip a few degrees.
- Tofol – Tofol is located in Lelu Town and is the capital of the state of Kosrae. Weather varies little throughout the year, with an average temperature around 25 degrees. The wettest month is May.
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 constable and embassy to ring in case of emergency.
Visiting Yap: the Island of Stone Money
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 whilst 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?
Micronesia is a popular destination. Ensure you pack these key items for your trip.
- Cash – Bring cash to pay departure fees, as credit cards are not accepted. ATM’s are not readily available.
- Light Clothing – it is very hot and humid in Micronesia. You will be most comfortable in light, flowy clothing.
- Swimsuit – Micronesia is an island country so bring a swimsuit or two to enjoy the warm water.
- Umbrella – Micronesia can get a fair amount of rain. Bring an umbrella or rain jacket to keep yourself dry during a downpour.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Micronesia
If you are in Micronesia and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
While there is no consulate or embassy in Micronesia, it is served by the British embassy in Fiji:
British High Commission Suva
47 Gladstone Road
Suva
Fiji
Telephone: +679 3229 100
Emergency Phone: +679 3304746
Contact Form: Click Here
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