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There is good reason Angkor Wat temple complex remains popular with tourists to Cambodia as this awe inspiring religious complex from the 12th century is set among lush forest creating a backdrop for a lifetime of memories. To ensure a healthy and safe visit to Angkor Wat and the nearby city of Siem Reap, it’s important to plan with health and vaccination advice before arriving to Cambodia.
Travel Vaccines for Angkor Wat Cambodia
While it’s always a good idea to visit a travel clinic for more detailed advice on vaccinations and specific recommendations; here are a few vaccines to consider from CDC in preparation for your trip to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap;
- Hepatitis A is a common illness and spreads easily from contamination in food and beverages
- Chikungunya; this mosquito disease is known to transmit in Cambodia and people 65 years and/or those with underlying health conditions are more likely to experience long-lasting complications
- Japanese Encephalitis is also spread from mosquitos and can cause long-term neurologic disfunction.
- Typhoid Fever is a severe form of salmonella poisoning that can require hospitalization and is a risk throughout Cambodia
- Rabies risk is primarily from stray dogs or monkeys commonly found at temple sites.
Keep in mind, while there is no risk for yellow fever disease in Cambodia, proof of vaccination is required upon entry by the Cambodian government if you have recently visited certain countries in South America or Africa.
Routine Immunizations for Cambodia
Equally as important as receiving travel vaccinations before visiting Cambodia, you want to be certain you are current on your “regular” or “routine” vaccines for your adventure to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap including; Hepatitis B, COVID, Chickenpox (Varicella), Flu, Measles (MMR), Pertussis (Tdap), and Polio
Additional immunizations for adults 60 years may be right for you such as Shingles, Pneumonia, and RSV.
Malaria Risk in Cambodia
While malaria remains a problem in many parts of Cambodia, there is no risk for malaria in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, or the capital city Phnom Penh. If your travel plans to Cambodia are limited to these three areas, then medication to prevent malaria is not needed. However, if you plan to visit other regions of Cambodia, make sure you are prepared with a prescription medication also known as antimalarial tablets.
Dengue Fever in Cambodia
Caution to avoid mosquito bites while visiting Cambodia, including Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, is warranted because dengue fever infection remains a concern for travelers. Unfortunately, a vaccine to prevent dengue is not available in the United States, so the best prevention is to apply insect repellent on skin and clothing. A case of dengue can lead to fever, muscle, joint, and bone pain along with rash. Most infections resolve in about a week with rest and hydration, however, a small percent of infections can lead to serious complications requiring hospitalization.
Local Cuisine and Traveler’s Diarrhea
Many travelers to Siem Reap, Cambodia visit markets for shopping and dining as part of their visit to Angkor Wat. Because of differences in food-handling practices throughout Cambodia, including tourist areas, approximately one third to one half of visitors will experience a bout of diarrhea. Read about safe food and beverage recommendations to reduce your risk and be sure to receive the hepatitis A and typhoid fever vaccines before your stay.
Visit Destination Health Clinic Before Your Trip to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, Cambodia
Many travelers combine a trip to Cambodia with other popular destinations in Southeast Asia. Read more about vaccination and malaria advice for Thailand and Vietnam and during your appointment we’ll help you prepare for a safe adventure for all your destination plans. We offer three Massachusetts locations and appointments can be booked online or by calling the offices nearest you; Braintree – South Shore, Springfield – Longmeadow, or Natick – Framingham office
