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July 25, 2025
Lena Sämann
Which vaccination is needed for which country? When should one start with the vaccination? This guide provides information according to STIKO.
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Traveling to tropical and subtropical areas can expose you to pathogens that are rare or nonexistent in Germany. Travel vaccinations not only protect you but also prevent the importation of dangerous infectious diseases to Germany. Timely vaccination advice is therefore an essential part of any travel preparation.
Before you receive special travel vaccinations, all standard vaccinations should be up to date according to STIKO recommendations:
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into many African and South American countries. The international vaccination certificate must be presented upon entry.
Important facts:
For pilgrimage trips to Saudi Arabia (Hajj/Umrah), a meningococcal vaccination (ACWY) is mandatory.
Hepatitis A is one of the most common travel-related infections and is transmitted through contaminated food and water transmitted.
Hepatitis B is transmitted through body fluids and is particularly relevant for longer stays or high-risk activities.
Typhoid is spread by contaminated food and water transmission occurs particularly in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in rural areas of Asia.
Preventive rabies vaccination is advisable when:
There is still no effective vaccine against malaria for travelers. Protection is provided by:
Depending on the travel destination and duration, malaria medications can be taken prophylactically:
Important vaccinations:
Recommended vaccinations:
Important vaccinations:
Different vaccinations require different periods until full protection:
Private health insurance often fully covers the cost of travel vaccinations.
Many statutory health insurance funds reimburse travel vaccinations as a voluntary statutory benefit:
Vaccination costs vary depending on the vaccine:
The travel medicine landscape is constantly evolving. New vaccines and changing recommendations require regular updates to travel advice. Current information can be found at the Robert Koch-Institut und der German Society for Tropical Medicine.
Travel vaccinations are an essential component for safe and carefree long-distance travel. Early, individualized advice from travel medicine specialists ensures optimal protection and prevents avoidable infectious diseases. Investing in travel vaccinations is an investment in your health and that of your family.
Most important tip: Start planning your vaccinations at least 6-8 weeks before your departure to have enough time for all necessary vaccinations and building up immunity.
This article does not replace individual travel medical advice. Always consult a doctor or specialized travel medical advisory service before long-distance travel.
