Overview
Malaria in the Philippines is concentrated on Palawan island: high in its southern third, moderate in the central third, and low in the northern third and neighbouring islands, including Mindanao. The rest of the country, including Manila, Cebu and Bohol, is malaria-free. Japanese encephalitis circulates nationwide with a peak from April to August.
Recommended vaccines
Malaria by region
Preventive tablets are advised in Palawan's high-risk southern third, and considered for higher-risk travellers in the central third. Elsewhere bite protection is enough. If fever develops during or after the trip, get tested for malaria promptly.
Malaria risk is regional, concentrated in the areas detailed below.
The southern third of Palawan island: bite protection and preventive tablets are advised.
The central third of Palawan island: a moderate risk, bite protection advised, sometimes with tablets for higher-risk travellers.
The northern third of Palawan, the islands of Alabat, Busuanga, Coron, Culion, Cuyo, Dumaran and Linapacan, Mindanao and the islands south of Mindanao: a lower risk, where bite protection is enough.
Manila and other major cities, plus the rest of the country, including the central islands such as Cebu and Bohol.
Other health risks
Prepare your trip
Leaving in under 2 weeks? Still book a clinic: a first hepatitis A dose already protects, and yellow fever needs at least 10 days. A travel clinic will prioritise what fits your timeline.
Frequently asked questions
Is any vaccine required for Philippines?
No vaccine is required if you arrive directly from Belgium. Yellow fever is only asked for if you come from (or transit through) a country where it circulates.
Is there a malaria risk?
Malaria: high risk depending on the region. Preventive tablets are advised in Palawan's high-risk southern third, and considered for higher-risk travellers in the central third. Elsewhere bite protection is enough. If fever develops during or after the trip, get tested for malaria promptly.
How far ahead of departure should I start?
Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before departure, to complete multi-dose schedules. Yellow fever, where it applies, must be given at least 10 days before arrival.
Our sources
Indicative information for a typical traveller, not medical advice. What you need depends on your itinerary, region, season and duration. See an approved travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure: only they can give yellow fever and issue the certificate.