China Vaccinations Guide for Travelers

Here's what you need to know about vaccinations for travel to China:

Please note that the articles and information on this site are for the purpose of providing general information, and do not take the place of, or constitute professional, medical, or legal advice on any subject matter. You are responsible for deciding how to use any information you read on this site, and for seeking further professional advice as you see fit.

No Mandatory Vaccines for Most Travelers

There are no required vaccinations for entry into China for most visitors (except Yellow Fever if coming from a risk country or transiting long in one).
China does not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine Vaccines (Make sure you're up to date):

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Polio
Influenza (flu shot - recommended annually)

Travel-Specific Vaccines Recommended for Most Travelers to China:

Although not required, some vaccines are recommended for travel to China. Our doctor recommended Hepatitis A and Typhoid, these are illnesses associated with food and water contamination.

Hepatitis A - Highly recommended (spread through food/water)
Typhoid - Recommended for most travelers
Hepatitis B - Recommended if you might need medical care, stay longer, or have close contact with locals
Rabies - Consider if you'll be in rural areas or around animals (not routine for city trips) Instruct children not to pet dogs they might occasionally run into, even if they look "friendly".
Japanese Encephalitis - Recommended for longer stays in rural areas, especially during summer/fall in certain regions

Make sure to consult with your doctor, and the Center for Disease Control website for the latest recommendations and status of any outbreaks or travel notices in effect you might need to be aware of.

Key Advice

When to get them: Start 4–8 weeks before your trip.
Consult a doctor: Visit a travel clinic or your doctor 6–8 weeks before departure for personalized advice based on your itinerary, age, health, and activities.
Rural vs. Cities: Risk is higher in rural areas (e.g., for Japanese Encephalitis or Rabies). Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have lower risk for many food/water-borne diseases.
Yellow Fever: Only required if you are coming from (or transiting long in) a Yellow Fever risk country.

Our Recommendation for First-Timers: