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The island of Bali is considered by many to be Indonesia’s crown jewel and captivates visitors with its stunning beaches, iconic rice terraces, and sacred monkey forest in Ubud. However, as with any tropical destination, it’s crucial to prioritize your health before visiting and seek vaccinations, medication, and health information before departing.
Travel Vaccinations for Bali, Indonesia
The CDC recommends visitors to Bali vaccinate against multiple travel illnesses, and some vaccines require multiple doses, so be sure to schedule your pre-travel consultation early to ensure you’re well protected.
Hepatitis A and Typhoid Fever
Hepatitis A and typhoid fever are both foodborne illnesses prevalent in Bali. Vaccination against these diseases is highly recommended for all travelers, regardless of the length of stay or accommodation.
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne infection that can cause life-long neurological problems and is present throughout Bali. Vaccination is recommended for those planning extended stays, particularly in rural areas or during the rainy season. Because of increasing laboratory confirmed cases in Bali, the Indonesian government has developed a national program of vaccination against JE.
Rabies
Bali has reported cases of rabies in humans and animals since 2008. While the risk is lower for short-term travelers, the human rabies vaccine is recommended for those planning long-term stays or those likely to come into contact with animals.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya, is another mosquito-to-human illness found in Bali and may be recommended for your trip. Travelers who are older, with extended-stay plans such as digital nomads and expats should consider vaccination. Infection can result in long-term joint pains and extreme fatigue.
Routine Vaccinations
Ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Bali including; COVID, hepatitis B, influenza, MMR (measles), polio, and Tdap (tetanus). Some routine vaccines you received previously may need a booster dose while others protect for lifetime.
For travelers 60 and older you may be eligible for shingles, pneumonia, and RSV vaccines too.
Malaria Risk in Bali, Indonesia
According to CDC, malaria risk in Bali is low, especially if sticking to resort areas and the city of Ubud. Subsequently, antimalarial tablets are not typically recommended for most travelers to Bali. However, if you visit other areas of Indonesia, malaria pills may be needed. There is no malaria vaccine at this time.
Dengue Fever in Bali
Pesky mosquitos are at it again, and dengue fever is a significant risk in Bali. While there is not a licensed dengue fever vaccine in the US, the Indonesian government has approved the Qdenga dengue fever vaccine. Expats and other long-term travelers may choose to receive the dengue fever vaccine in Bali.
Traveler’s Diarrhea
No one wants to spend their time stuck in the bathroom while in paradise, so follow these suggestions to reduce your risk of traveler’s diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses:
- Drink only bottled water, do not consume water from the tap
- Avoid ice in drinks
- Eat thoroughly cooked foods
- Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself
- Practice good hand hygiene before each meal
Visit Destination Health Clinic Before Your Trip to Bali
It’s best to visit a travel clinic several weeks or months before your trip to Bali to receive the vaccines and health advice to keep you well while you’re away But, even last minute vaccination is better than no protection, so we invite you to contact the Destination Health Clinic location nearest you today; Braintree – South Shore, Springfield – Longmeadow, or Natick – Framingham office.
