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The Philippines might look like paradise – but that sun-drenched beach can quickly lose its charm if you're laid up with heatstroke, dengue, or a dodgy stomach. While the country is generally safe, the tropical climate, street food, and far-flung islands bring their own set of challenges. The good news? A bit of prep goes a long way. These Philippines travel health tips will help you stay healthy while you island-hop, snorkel, and feast your way around the archipelago.
Before you zip off to Palawan or party in Manila, make sure your vaccinations are in check. Some are essential, others depend on how far off the grid you're going and what you're planning to do.
Your childhood jabs might cover the basics, but double-check with your doctor before you fly. Here’s what to know.
Mandatory vaccines
Recommended vaccines
Before you’re snorkeling off Coron or chasing waterfalls in Samar, take a minute to prep. The heat, humidity, and health system might be a little different from home – but a bit of foresight can make all the difference. Here’s your essential pre-travel health checklist for a stress-free trip to the Philippines.
You don’t need to bring a mini-hospital, but these basics can spare you a midnight search for a pharmacy in a remote town.
Book an appointment at a travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before your trip. Some vaccines take time to kick in or require multiple doses.
Mosquito bites are part of tropical travel, but that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. Dengue is widespread, and malaria is a risk in some parts of the country. Pack smart and plan ahead.
The risk of malaria is low in most tourist areas – Manila, Cebu, Boracay, and Bohol are malaria-free. But some rural and forested regions, especially in Palawan and Mindanao, still report occasional cases.
Prevention tips:
Dengue is more common than malaria and spreads fast during the rainy season (June to November). Zika has been reported but is less common. Both are spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes.
Tips to reduce the risk:
If you feel sick: High fever, joint pain, and a rash could mean dengue. Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin – they can increase bleeding. Stick to paracetamol and see a doctor.
If you’re already guarding against mosquito bites, you’ve tackled one of the biggest risks. But there are a few more Philippines travel health tips to keep in mind as you explore the islands.
Stray dogs are common across the Philippines – especially in rural towns and fishing villages. Monkeys and even cats can also carry rabies. If you get bitten or scratched, act fast.
If you’re planning an extended stay or heading to more remote regions, getting vaccinated against rabies before you travel is a smart move.
Filipino food is tasty, diverse, and often served at sizzling roadside carinderias. But food hygiene isn’t always top-notch, especially in rural areas.
If you’ve got a sensitive stomach, bring probiotics or activated charcoal to help avoid digestive trouble.
If a dodgy meal strikes, your top priority is staying hydrated.
Air pollution in Metro Manila and other big cities can be tough, especially during the dry season (December to May). If you have asthma or other respiratory issues, pack an N95 mask.
And don’t underestimate the heat – the Philippine sun is relentless.
Healthcare in the Philippines ranges from modern private clinics in the cities to basic facilities in the provinces. If something goes wrong – an injury on a dive trip, a scooter accident, or even a bout of food poisoning – you’ll want backup. Medical bills can stack up quickly, and getting evacuated from a remote island isn’t cheap. Solid travel insurance will keep you covered for emergencies, cancellations, and those moments when your bag decides to take its own vacation. Here’s what you need to know before choosing a policy.
Before you buy, make sure your policy includes:
These companies are popular with travelers and offer decent coverage in the Philippines:
Always read the fine print – especially around activities like diving or riding scooters, which aren’t always included.
If you land in a private hospital without insurance, expect to pay upfront – and it won’t be cheap. Public hospitals are more affordable, but they’re often crowded and short on resources.
Here’s a rough idea of what things might cost without insurance:
Without insurance, even a basic accident can hit your budget hard – and ruin your trip.
Even with the best planning, things can go sideways – a scooter crash, food poisoning, or a sudden fever. Here’s how to get help fast if you fall ill in the Philippines.
Tip: Save these numbers in your phone before you go. Not all areas have fast emergency response, especially on smaller islands.
If you need medical attention, head to a private hospital – they’re better equipped and more likely to have English-speaking staff.
In more remote areas, clinics may be basic – but staff are usually helpful and resourceful. For serious issues, you may need to transfer to a city hospital.
Pharmacies are easy to find, even in smaller towns. Look for chains like Mercury Drug or Watsons. Pharmacists are trained and can usually help with minor ailments like colds, stomach issues, or minor wounds. No prescription? For many common meds, that’s not a problem.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Philippines
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