If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia in 2026, vaccinations are not strictly required for most travelers. However, several vaccines are strongly recommended to protect your health and make sure you can enjoy your trip with no issues.
This is particularly important in 2026, due to reports of a measles outbreak in parts of Java and renewed guidance on polio boosters for adults. This guide explains:
- Indonesia and Bali vaccine requirements
- Which vaccines are required vs. recommended?
- Details on current health risks in 2026
- How to avoid common travel illnesses
Are Vaccinations Mandatory to Enter Indonesia?
Indonesia doesn’t require routine vaccinations for entry in most cases. However, there is one important exception. The table below shows which vaccines are recommended and which are mandatory.
Important: Indonesia’s formerly used SS Health Declaration has now been replaced by the Arrival Card. It contains all the necessary passenger declarations for visitors entering the country.
Recommended Vaccines for All Travelers
Even though most vaccines are not required by law, global health authorities like the CDC and WHO recommend several vaccinations for travelers to Indonesia.
Whatever your itinerary, health authorities recommend getting up-to-date on routine vaccines. You should consider additional protection depending on the activities you’ll take part in and the areas of Indonesia you plan to visit.
Hepatitis A and Typhoid
These are two of the most commonly recommended vaccines for Indonesia.
- Hepatitis A: Spread through contaminated food or water
- Typhoid: Risk increases in areas with lower sanitation standards
Even travelers staying in hotels or resorts can be exposed through food handling or water sources, so these vaccines are recommended for all visitors.
Measles (MMR) and Tetanus updates
Routine immunizations are especially important in 2026 due to recent outbreaks.
- Measles (MMR vaccine): A measles outbreak has been reported in parts of Java, making full vaccination essential
- Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap): Boosters are recommended every 10 years
- Polio: Adults may be advised to receive a booster dose if traveling to regions with increased risk
Many travelers assume childhood vaccines are enough, but immunity can decrease over time. Take time to schedule booster vaccines before you travel.
Specialized Vaccines: Bali vs. Rural Indonesia
Your vaccination needs may vary depending on where you travel and the activities you take part in during your stay.
- Bali and major cities: Lower risk, standard vaccines usually sufficient
- TRural areas and remote islands: Higher exposure to insects, animals, and limited healthcare access
For personalized recommendations, consult with your healthcare provider about any preexisting health conditions.
Japanese encephalitis vaccination for Indonesia
Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection found in parts of Indonesia. For most people, a vaccine is generally not necessary, especially for short trips to popular areas like Bali.
However, vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is recommended if you plan to:
- Stay in Indonesia for longer than a month
- Visit rural or agricultural areas
- Spend time outdoors at night
Rabies risk and prevention for animal encounters
Rabies is present in Indonesia, including Bali. The risk comes from dog, monkey, or bat bites. You should consider a preemptive rabies vaccine if you plan to spend time with animals, in the general outdoors, or on adventure activities.
It’s also recommended for young travelers, including children, as they have a higher exposure risk. All visitors are advised to avoid contact with animals whenever possible.
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses in 2026: Malaria, Dengue, and Chikungunya
Mosquito-related diseases are one of the main health risks in Indonesia, in particular:
- Dengue fever: Common in urban and tourist areas like Bali
- Chikungunya: Occasional outbreaks
- Malaria: Present in some eastern regions, including parts of Papua, West Papua, East Nusa Tenggara, and Maluku. It's less common in Bali and major cities.
There are no vaccines for dengue or chikungunya widely available for most travelers, so prevention is key. Make sure to:
- Use insect repellent with DEET
- Wear long sleeves and trousers
- Sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms
- Use mosquito nets in rural or remote areas
For malaria-risk areas, your doctor may recommend preventive malaria tablets before, during, and after travel. The right medication depends on your itinerary, medical history, and current resistance patterns, so you should arrange this before departure rather than after arrival.
The Yellow Fever Certificate: Who Needs It?
You only need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you:
- Are traveling from a country with yellow fever risk
- Have a layover longer than 12 hours in a risk country
If this applies, you must carry proof of vaccination when entering Indonesia and present it at the border crossing. If you’re traveling directly from the US, UK, or most of Europe, you do not need this certificate.
Health Tips for Indonesia: Tap Water and Preventing “Bali Belly”
Food and water hygiene play a major role in staying healthy while you travel.
All visitors to Indonesia are recommended not to drink tap water and to avoid ice in drinks, unless it’s confirmed to be safe. You should drink bottled or filtered water only, and use it to brush your teeth. “Bali Belly” refers to traveler’s diarrhea. Reduce your risk by:
- Eating fully cooked food
- Avoiding raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits
- Washing your hands frequently
- Using hand sanitizer
Even careful travelers can be affected, but symptoms are usually mild. It can be a good idea to bring oral rehydration salts, anti-diarrheal medication, or electrolyte tablets so you’re well prepared.
FAQs: Common Questions About Indonesia Travel Health
Do I need vaccines for Bali in 2026?
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No vaccines are legally required for Bali unless you are arriving from a yellow fever risk country. However, hepatitis A, typhoid, MMR, and routine vaccines are strongly recommended.
You should consider other vaccines, like Japanese encephalitis or rabies, for rural travel, long stays, or contact with animals.
Is there a measles risk in Indonesia?
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Yes. Measles activity has been reported in parts of Java, so you should check that you’re fully vaccinated before departure. The MMR vaccine is especially important for children, unvaccinated adults, and anyone unsure of their vaccine history.
Do adults need a polio booster for Indonesia?
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Some adults may need a polio booster before traveling to Indonesia. This usually applies if your vaccination history is incomplete or uncertain or if you are visiting higher-risk areas. Consult with a doctor to confirm whether you need a one-time adult booster.
Is Japanese encephalitis common in Bali?
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Japanese encephalitis risk is generally low for short-term visitors staying in Bali’s main tourist areas. The vaccine is recommended for long stays, rural travel, or outdoor activities near rice fields and farming areas. Most short resort trips do not require it.
What’s the most common illness for travelers to Indonesia?
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Traveler’s diarrhea, often called “Bali Belly” is one of the most common health issues. It’s usually linked to contaminated food, water, or poor hand hygiene. Drinking bottled water, avoiding unsafe ice, and eating only fully cooked food can reduce your risk.