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What jabs do I need for India?

Find out what vaccinations you need for India.
Heading off to Goa or Kerala soon? Get up to speed on what jabs you’ll need for India and when you should get booked in for them – as well as checking out a whole load of other FAQs. Remember to also visit your GP as soon as you’ve booked, and take advice from The World Health Organisation before you travel.

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WHAT JABS DO I NEED?

Most doctors will recommend that you get the following injections for Goa or Kerala:
Diphtheria, polio and tetanus (one combined booster – phew!)
Hepatitis A
Typhoid

Remember to get booked in to see your GP as soon as you know you’re going – there can often be big waiting lists, so the sooner the better. You can get a brief overview from The World Health Organisation, too. And, if the thought of injections makes you grimace, knowing that they’re often free on the NHS should cheer you up. Just think, all that extra money saved = more rupees to splurge on bargains at Arpora's colour-popping night market, or cocktails at one of Cavelossim's palm-fringed beach shacks.

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ANY ADDITIONAL JABS TO CONSIDER?

Your GP might also advise getting jabs for Cholera, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies. You can often discuss these on the phone with a practise nurse, if you’re unsure.

WHICH JABS DO I NEED TO PAY FOR?

It’s likely that you’ll have to pay for private vaccinations for Hepatitis B (when not combined with Hepatitis A), Japanese encephalitis and Rabies.

WHAT ELSE CAN IMPACT THE JABS I NEED?

There are three key things to think about, really. First up is the weather. Some diseases are more common at certain times of the year, e.g. during monsoon season, as there are more mosquitos about. Next, consider where you’re staying. Rural areas carry higher risks of disease than urban areas, as you’re more likely to encounter animals or contaminated water sources. Third, and finally, is your age and health. Speak to your GP about any existing medical conditions or treatment you’re receiving, and make sure you let them know if you’re pregnant – generally GPs will avoid giving vaccinations in this instance.

Once you’re all vaccinated, you can explore with complete peace of mind. Nobody wants to miss out on heading to the tropics and taking a dip in the pools at the tumbling Dudhsagar waterfalls, or befriending the monkeys that hang out there, do they?

Find out about more top things to do in India

WHEN SHOULD I GET MY JABS?

You should seek advice at least eight weeks before you’re due to travel. Some jabs are needed well in advance and require a few courses, so it’s best to keep on top of them. A quick phone call to your GP will update you on whether your existing jabs are up to date, and practise nurses can provide general advice about travelling in India. After all, the sooner you’re booked in, the sooner you can start planning tuk-tuk rides through Goa’s Panjim, or taking a trip from Kovalam to explore ancient palaces in Trivandrum – Kerala’s hotspot for gold and jewels.

Get more clued up on Goa

DO I NEED MALARIA TABLETS FOR INDIA?

You should always consider taking antimalarial medicine when travelling to areas at risk. Visit your GP or local travel clinic as soon as you know when you’re going to be visiting India. Usually, you’ll be advised to take a course of antimalarial tablets before you leave, and during your stay. Don’t worry – it’s usually just one tablet a day, and you’ll be cruising down the Mandovi River trying to spot crocodiles before you know it.
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See all of our holidays to India. Plus, find out the best time to visit India and check out the best places to visit in India.

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Author: Lucy Perrin

Last updated: 06.11.2017

Holiday Type

Destination

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