Overview
Thailand is malaria-free in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pattaya, and low-risk across most of the rest of the country, including the popular islands (Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi). The forested border strip with Myanmar and Little Koh Chang island in the Andaman Sea carry a moderate risk, the highest documented for the country. Dengue is the more relevant everyday mosquito risk nationwide.
Recommended vaccines
Malaria by region
Bite protection is advised everywhere; tablets are only considered for higher-risk travellers in the moderate-risk border strip and Koh Chang. If fever develops during or after the trip, get tested for malaria promptly.
Malaria risk is limited to certain regions, shown below.
The forested border strip with Myanmar and Little Koh Chang island (Andaman Sea): a moderate risk, the highest documented for the country. Bite protection is advised, with tablets for higher-risk travellers.
The rest of the country, including the popular islands (Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi) and rural areas generally: a lower risk where bite protection is enough.
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pattaya.
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 Thailand?
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: risk limited to certain regions. Bite protection is advised everywhere; tablets are only considered for higher-risk travellers in the moderate-risk border strip and Koh Chang. 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.