Learn more about the diseases you may need protection from & vaccinations to be considered for your trip to Australia
Australia is a popular destination for people travelling the world, visiting family or just going on holiday. It’s a diverse country with deserts, beaches and much, much more. If you’re going on the trip of a lifetime, though, you’ll want to help yourself to stay safe.
Depending on your destination and the activities you do, you may be exposed to diseases you would not otherwise encounter in the UK. Some of these diseases can be vaccinated against at your local Boots pharmacy.
Getting vaccinated can help prevent you from becoming ill if you are exposed to these diseases. Our pharmacists will help you understand the factors that increase your risk and can help you work out which vaccinations to get depending on things like:
• Which regions you are visiting
• What activities you are doing
• Your age and general health
Book an appointment
We recommend booking an appointment with a Boots pharmacist six to eight weeks before you travel. However, even if time is short, we can still help you with options to consider.
Diseases in Australia
All visitors to Australia should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK. These vaccinations include for example measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.
You can use our quick check tool to get a list of diseases that may be present in the country and vaccinations you may consider for your destination.
Rabies
Rabies has not been reported in Australia and most travellers would be considered to be at low risk. However, bats may carry bat rabies. Rabies vaccinations could be considered for those whose activities put them at increased risk of exposure to bats.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection caught from contaminated food and water. The risk is higher in areas with poor sanitation, so taking steps like washing your hands after using the toilet is important.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral liver disease spread through infected blood and other bodily fluids. The risk is higher for certain people, for example having unprotected sex.
Japanese encephalitis
This brain infection is spread by mosquitoes and symptoms include paralysis and seizures. There is only a risk of transmission if you visit the Torres Strait Islands and Cape York Peninsula in northern Queensland.
Tetanus
Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria and can lead to the tightening of muscles in the body which can affect swallowing and breathing.
Travellers should have completed a primary vaccination course of diphtheria, tetanus and polio according to the UK schedule.
Quick check tool
You can use our quick check tool to get a list of diseases that may be present in the country and vaccinations to consider for your destination.
FIND OUT MORE
Tetanus
Learn more about the condition
Travel Vaccinations & Health Advice Service
We can provide expert advice, vaccinations & malaria prevention that's tailored for your travel plans
Rabies
Learn more about the condition
