Health & Vaccinations
Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccinations for entry from Germany. Recommended are:
- Standard vaccinations: Tetanus, diphtheria, polio, measles (get boosters)
- Hepatitis A: Strongly recommended (transmission through food/water)
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for longer stays
- Typhoid: Recommended for travel to rural areas
- Rabies: Recommended for close animal contact or travel to remote areas (Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri). Stray dogs are ubiquitous!
- Japanese Encephalitis: For longer stays in rural areas during the rainy season
Malaria & Dengue
- Malaria: Risk in remote forest areas (Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, border areas). No risk in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and the coast. Prophylaxis (Malarone, Doxycycline) only needed for travel to the northeast — consult a travel doctor!
- Dengue: Nationwide, especially during the rainy season (May–November). No vaccine, no prophylactic medication. Mosquito protection is the only prevention: DEET-based repellent (at least 30%), long clothing at dusk, mosquito net at night.
Tap Water & Stomach
NEVER drink tap water — not even for brushing teeth in basic accommodations. Bottled water is cheap everywhere (0.25–0.50 USD). Ice in tourist restaurants is generally safe (industrially produced). Street food is generally safe — look for high turnover.
Medical Care
There are good private clinics in Phnom Penh (Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, SOS International). In Siem Reap: Royal Angkor International Hospital. Outside major cities: very limited care. In serious emergencies: Evacuation to Bangkok (1h flight). Travel health insurance with repatriation is MANDATORY!
Important: Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are well-stocked. Outside: only basic medications. Bring: Imodium, electrolyte powder, painkillers, band-aids, disinfectant, malaria prophylaxis (if needed).
