Travel Health Guide: India
Travelers to India need typhoid, hepatitis A, and routine vaccine boosters at minimum. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most itineraries outside major urban centres.
Essential Vaccines for India
Hepatitis A
Recommended for all travelers — transmitted via contaminated food and water
Typhoid
Highly recommended — endemic throughout India, especially with street food exposure
Routine Boosters
Ensure MMR, polio, tetanus-diphtheria, and COVID-19 are current
Recommended Vaccines
Hepatitis B
For extended stays, healthcare workers, or potential blood/body fluid exposure
Rabies
For rural travel and animal exposure risk — dogs, monkeys, bats
Japanese Encephalitis
Extended rural stays during monsoon season (May–October)
Cholera (Dukoral)
Consider for adventure travelers and those visiting rural areas
Malaria Risk Assessment
Malaria risk varies by region and season. Most areas below 2000m altitude have risk, especially during and after monsoon. We assess your specific itinerary.
Visiting Friends & Relatives (VFR) in India
VFR travelers face unique risks: longer stays, less controlled food and water, and a false sense of security from familiarity. Even if you were born in India, your immunity may have waned and new disease variants may have emerged. Full vaccination is essential.
Malaria Prevention
Malaria is present in many parts of India, particularly lower-altitude areas during monsoon season. We assess your specific itinerary and recommend the appropriate prophylaxis:
- Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone): Daily, fewer side effects, ideal for short trips
- Doxycycline: Daily, affordable, sun sensitivity — good for longer stays
- Mefloquine: Weekly dosing, potential mood/sleep effects
Food & Water Safety Tips
Drink only bottled or boiled water. Avoid raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, and street food from questionable vendors. Eat cooked food served hot. Carry hand sanitizer.
When to Get Vaccinated
Book your consultation 4–6 weeks before departure to allow time for multi-dose vaccines. Traveling sooner? Call us — same-day appointments are often available.
Medical Disclaimer & Sources
Vaccine recommendations are based on current Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) Guidelines and may change. Individual recommendations depend on your health history, itinerary, and current outbreaks. Always consult a travel medicine specialist for personalized advice.
View current Government of Canada travel advisory for India .
Book Your India Travel Consultation
Visit our travel clinic in Mississauga for a personalized pre-travel consultation and all required vaccines.
(905) 890-2757Disclaimer: Vaccine requirements and health recommendations vary by itinerary, medical history, and current health advisories. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a personalized travel health consultation. Please book an appointment with our physician for advice specific to your trip.