Travel precaution : which vaccine Malaysia
Vaccines Malaysia can save your life during your stay.
Every year, Malaysia attracts more and more expatriates. The country is developing at a phenomenal rate.
Kuala Lumpur, the country’s capital, has quickly become one of the most important financial hubs in Asia.
If you want to know more about expatriation in Malaysia, please read our article expatriation malaysia.
Malaysia is one of the most popular destinations for short or long vacations.
This country is a real multicultural kaleidoscope because of the presence of several ethnic groups. Malaysia fascinates with its beautiful beaches, ancient buildings, tropical climate and splendid islands.
However, Malaysia as any tropical destination is prone to several diseases. You will need several vaccinations before entering the country. If you want to learn about vaccines in Malaysia, this guide is for you.
Vaccine Malaysia : the different diseases in Malaysia
When traveling to Malaysia, certain vaccinations are required to fully enjoy your stay in the country.
Wherever you are, you will need to protect yourself from many diseases.
Consult your doctor before travelling !
These diseases include: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tetanus and diphtheria. In case you experience flu-like symptoms and fever, please seek emergency medical attention. Keep in mind that in Malaysia measles spreads quickly, it is a very common disease in the country.
Before you travel, you should be aware of your health status and any vaccinations required for your stay in Malaysia. Please note that the mandatory travel vaccinations for Malaysia are hepatitis A and tetanus. Other vaccinations are recommended to avoid the risk of getting sick. These vaccinations include: cholera, hepatitis B, diphtheria, rabies, Japanese encephalitis and typhoid.
Unfortunately, several diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes in Malaysia. Among these diseases are: dengue, chikungunya, malaria and Japanese encephalitis. Fortunately, Japanese encephalitis can be prevented by vaccination, while malaria can be prevented by specific medications. Keep in mind that the best way to avoid other diseases is to use mosquito repellent or appropriate clothing.
Which vaccine for Malaysia: mandatory and recommended vaccines
To better help you prepare your stay in Malaysia and to know all the necessary and recommended vaccines, we have put at your disposal this exhaustive list with all the necessary information.
- The hepatitis A vaccine is mandatory in Malaysia. Vaccination is done in one phase, two weeks before travel. Keep in mind that a good diet and a constant hydration system decrease the risk of hepatitis A.
- Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended in Malaysia. The vaccination is valid for 5 years. It is done in 3 installments, 3 weeks before the trip.
- The yellow fever vaccine is recommended in Malaysia. It becomes mandatory if you come from a country at risk of transmitting the disease. Vaccination is done in one phase, 10 days before travel.
- The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is recommended in Malaysia. Vaccination is done in 2 phases, 3 months before the trip.
- The rabies vaccine from animal saliva is recommended in Malaysia. It becomes mandatory if you come from a country with a high risk of transmission. The vaccination is done in 3 phases, 1 month before the trip.
- The Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended in Malaysia.
- The tetanus vaccine is mandatory in Malaysia. Vaccination is done in one phase, at any time before travel.
- Varicella vaccine is recommended in Malaysia.
- Shingles vaccine is recommended in Malaysia. Vaccination is done in two phases for people 65 years of age and older or for immunocompromised people.
- The flu vaccine is recommended in Malaysia especially for people at increased risk and students.
- Polio vaccine is recommended in Malaysia. However, vaccination can be avoided if the traveler follows a healthy diet and hydration regime.
Getting vaccinated in Malaysia: practical information
When traveling, a tourist or an expatriate is never safe from catching an illness or an infection. Fortunately, Malaysia has a very good hospital infrastructure. Generally in Malaysia, doctors speak English fluently and are very competent.
Some hospitals in Kuala Lumpur
If you find yourself in Kuala Lumpur, don’t worry, the capital’s hospitals are renowned for their excellence.
Among the best hospitals in the capital of Malaysia are: the Gleneagles and the Prince Court Hospital. These are the hospitals “preferred” by expatriates in particular.
You will find other famous hospitals like Damai Service Hospital, Pantai Indah Hospital or Global Doctors International Medical Clinic.
In short, Malaysia has a very good medical corps that is easily accessible.
However, we recommend that you bring a first aid kit and some medication with you to avoid the risk of catching an illness or infection.
What medications should I take for a vacation in Malaysia?
Some of the medications you should take with you to Malaysia include:
- Acetazolamide or dexamethasone (recommended for the prevention of acute mountain sickness)
- Azithromycin or Suprax antibiotic (recommended for prevention of diarrhea)
- Malarone, doxycycline or mefloquine (recommended for malaria prevention)
- Anti-mosquito creams can be very useful if you are prone to mosquito bites;
- What you need in case of injury: disinfectant, compresses, bandages. You can also find them in Malaysia just in case.
Malaysia vaccines are an excellent way to ensure your health and safety.
If you don’t want to take the recommended vaccines, you’ll need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, hydration and food.
In case you feel unwell, please go to the nearest hospital or dial 999.
Coronavirus in Malaysia
Is the coronavirus vaccine mandatory to enter Malaysia ?
As of the end of 2022, the COVID vaccine is no longer required.
So you can enter Malaysia as usual.
Our personal remarks
Before our expatriation to Malaysia, we subscribed to an international health insurance.
Take the time to read the terms and conditions and the type of coverage.
There are many international insurance companies, and prices can double from one company to another, for the same type of service!
Here are some tips:
- Get several health insurance quotes if you decide to expatriate.
- Vaccines are generally considered to be a “pharmacy” expense (which is the case for us).
- As an indication, the price of the first vaccines for newborns (“pack of 7 vaccines”, per injection, and not 11 as in France) is around RM150 to RM300.
- Always keep a few hospital numbers close to your vacation spot / residence in case of emergency: there is no ambulance service like in France (except for very serious situations).
- If possible, keep your blood type card and vaccination record with you.