greece cdc travel immunizations

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Think Travel Vaccine Guide

As a health care provider, be sure to prepare your globe-trotting patients for travel by providing a quick pretravel risk assessment, consultation, and care. THINK TRAVEL:

• Ask your patients if they plan on any international travel .
• Make sure they are up- to- date on all routine vaccines before their trip.
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Yellow fever
• Japanese encephalitis
• Meningococcal diseases

For destination-specific vaccine recommendations, search CDC’s Destination pages.

Think about...

*Travelers may also need routine (non-travel) vaccines or boosters before travel including influenza; measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR); tetanus (Td or Tdap); varicella; pneumococcus; and polio. Check CDC’s Destination Pages for country-specific vaccine recommendations.

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Vaccines for Travelers

Vaccines protect travelers from serious diseases. Depending on where you travel, you may come into contact with diseases that are rare in the United States, like yellow fever. Some vaccines may also be required for you to travel to certain places.

Getting vaccinated will help keep you safe and healthy while you’re traveling. It will also help make sure that you don’t bring any serious diseases home to your family, friends, and community.

On this page, you'll find answers to common questions about vaccines for travelers.

Which vaccines do I need before traveling?

The vaccines you need to get before traveling will depend on few things, including:

• Where you plan to travel . Some countries require proof of vaccination for certain diseases, like yellow fever or polio. And traveling in developing countries and rural areas may bring you into contact with more diseases, which means you might need more vaccines before you visit.
• Your health . If you’re pregnant or have an ongoing illness or weakened immune system, you may need additional vaccines.
• The vaccinations you’ve already had . It’s important to be up to date on your routine vaccinations. While diseases like measles are rare in the United States, they are more common in other countries. Learn more about routine vaccines for specific age groups .

How far in advance should I get vaccinated before traveling?

It’s important to get vaccinated at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. This will give the vaccines time to start working, so you’re protected while you’re traveling. It will also usually make sure there’s enough time for you to get vaccines that require more than 1 dose.

Where can I go to get travel vaccines?

Start by finding a:

• Travel clinic
• Health department
• Yellow fever vaccination clinic

Learn more about where you can get vaccines .

What resources can I use to prepare for my trip?

Here are some resources that may come in handy as you’re planning your trip:

• Visit CDC’s travel website to find out which vaccines you may need based on where you plan to travel, what you’ll be doing, and any health conditions you have.
• Download CDC's TravWell app to get recommended vaccines, a checklist to help prepare for travel, and a personalized packing list. You can also use it to store travel documents and keep a record of your medicines and vaccinations.
• Read the current travel notices to learn about any new disease outbreaks in or vaccine recommendations for the areas where you plan to travel.
• Visit the State Department’s website to learn about vaccinations, insurance, and medical emergencies while traveling.

Traveling with a child? Make sure they get the measles vaccine.

Measles is still common in some countries. Getting your child vaccinated will protect them from getting measles — and from bringing it back to the United States where it can spread to others. Learn more about the measles vaccine.

Find out which vaccines you need

CDC’s Adult Vaccine Quiz helps you create a list of vaccines you may need based on your age, health conditions, and more.

Take the quiz now !

Get Immunized

Getting immunized is easy. Vaccines and preventive antibodies are available at the doctor’s office or pharmacies — and are usually covered by insurance.

Find out how to get protected .

Disclaimer Policy: Links with this icon ( ) mean that you are leaving the HHS website.

• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) cannot guarantee the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not mean that HHS or its employees endorse the sponsors, information, or products presented on the website. HHS links outside of itself to provide you with further information.
• You will be bound by the destination website's privacy policy and/or terms of service when you follow the link.
• HHS is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on private websites.

For more information on HHS's web notification policies, see Website Disclaimers .

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Greece

Greece’s breathtaking coastlines, pristine architecture and historic influence have attracted travelers from around the world for centuries.

The country is a Mediterranean paradise that boasts something for all who visit. Whether you’re looking to experience a gorgeous sunset off of the Santorini coast or take a tour down the streets of Athens, Greece is the perfect destination!

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Greece? Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Greece Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Greece? What Is the Climate Like in Greece? Is It Safe to Travel to Greece? Seeing Amazing Rhodes What Should I Take to Greece? U.S. Embassy in Greece

Do I Need Vaccines for Greece?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Greece. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Greece: hepatitis A , polio , rabies , hepatitis B , influenza , COVID-19 , pneumonia , meningitis , chickenpox , shingles , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers.
• Polio – Food & Water – Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Meningitis – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Specific Vaccine Information

• Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine provides effective prevention against the virus. It is administered in a series of shots, usually starting in childhood, and is recommended for travel to areas with high infection rates.
• Rabies – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travelers.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection, is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention includes practicing safe behaviors, but the cornerstone of protection is hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine activates the immune system, generating antibodies that offer potent and enduring defense against the virus.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.

Outbreaks of routine diseases do happen in some parts of Europe. Make sure your routine immunizations are up to date.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Greece

Prevent bug bites in greece.

Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.

Food and Water Safety in Greece

Abroad, practice food safety by avoiding street vendors, washing hands thoroughly, and choosing well-cooked meals. Opt for bottled or canned drinks with unbroken seals. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by practicing hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.

Altitude Sickness in Greece

When ascending to high altitudes, beware of altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness due to reduced oxygen levels. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and possibly using medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms appear, swift descent to lower elevations, rest, and medical evaluation are essential.

Infections To Be Aware of in Greece

• Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, which spreads through ticks and human-to-human contact, can be mitigated by practicing tick bite prevention. Vaccinations against the disease are in development.
• Leishmaniasis – Infected sand flies are the primary vectors of leishmaniasis. Preventive measures include the use of insect repellents, protective clothing and staying indoors during sand fly peak hours.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Greece?

A passport with at least six months’ validity is required to enter Greece. The country does not require a visa for stays under 90 days.

Sources: Embassy of Greece and U.S. State Department

Travelers’ passports must be valid for at least another 6 months beyond their trip. Make sure to have one blank page per stamp available in your passport.

Though no vaccinations are required to enter into the country, some are recommended.

What Is the Climate Like in Greece?

Greece’s most popular tourist destinations have a Mediterranean climate. It is hot and dry summers and mild winters. In Athens temperatures can range from 80 to 90 degrees during the summer months of June to August, with occasional heatwaves reaching up to 105. Winter temperatures are mild, ranging from 50 to 60.

Santorini and Mykonos, two popular Greek islands, have similar climates to Athens. Temperatures during the summer months ranging from 80 to 90 degrees, and occasional heatwaves reaching up to 95. Winter temperatures are mild, ranging from 50 to 60.

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with temperatures ranging from 80 to 90 during the summer months of June to August, with occasional heatwaves reaching up to 105. Winter temperatures are mild, ranging from 50 to 60 degrees.

Weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always best to check the forecast before traveling to any destination.

Is It Safe to Travel to Greece?

To stay safe while traveling in Greece, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to any potential dangers. Keep your valuables safe by not leaving them unattended and using official taxis.

Be careful when using public transportation and watch out for pickpockets. Follow any COVID-19 guidelines in place. Check for environmental warnings before going out and follow any instructions given by local authorities.

Be respectful of local customs and laws, such as dress codes and not taking photos of military installations. By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Greece.

Seeing Amazing Rhodes

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

Rhodes is a beautiful island in Greece that attracts many tourists. Visitors can explore the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see a medieval castle and historic buildings.

They can also relax on the beaches and try water sports. The Palace of the Grand Master is a museum with exhibitions of Byzantine and medieval artifacts. Lindos is a village with an Acropolis that offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Visitors can take boat trips to nearby islands and visit the Valley of the Butterflies, a nature reserve where thousands of butterflies can be seen in summer.

Rhodes has a rich culinary tradition with dishes such as tzatziki, moussaka, and souvlaki, and local wines like Muscat.

What Should I Take to Greece?

When traveling to Greece, it is important to pack for the climate and region you will be visiting. Greece can be very hot during the summer months, it is recommended to bring light and breathable clothing like cotton or linen shirts, shorts, and dresses. Comfortable shoes like sandals, sneakers, and hiking shoes are a good idea as the streets and terrain can be uneven.

Sun protection is important, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. If you plan to visit coastal areas, don’t forget your swimsuit. Greece is a beautiful country, so a camera is a good idea to capture all the sights.

Make sure to bring an adapter for electronic devices, cash or a credit card that works internationally, and any medications you may take. Insect repellent is also a good idea, especially during the summer months when mosquitoes can be a problem. A comfortable backpack or daypack is recommended for carrying your essentials while exploring Greece’s many attractions.

U.S. Embassy in Greece

The U.S. embassy in Greece offers different services for travelers. They can assist American citizens who are in Greece and give information about traveling to Greece.

If you’re a U.S. citizen in Greece and need help with emergencies, passport or notarial services, the embassy can assist you. They also provide information about Greece, such as entry requirements, safety, local customs, and laws.

If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Greece, there is a U.S. embassy in Athens.

U.S. Embassy Athens 91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue 10160 Athens, Greece Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301 Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313 Email: [email protected]

The embassy’s website or direct contact is a good source for the latest information on the services they offer.

Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now !

Customer Reviews

Passport health – travel vaccines for greece.

• Records Requests
• Passport Health App
• Privacy Center
• Online Store

Greece Vaccine Requirements & What Vaccinations Are Recommended?

Greece , the cradle of Western civilization, is celebrated for its magnificent ancient ruins, including the iconic Parthenon in Athens. This land, where philosophers like Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle pondered the mysteries of existence, has made indelible marks on philosophy, science, mathematics, and democracy. Its rich literary heritage is evidenced by the works of playwrights such as Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes. For visitors, Greece offers a feast for the senses: from savoring classic Greek cuisine — ranging from moussaka and souvlaki to baklava — to basking in the beauty of its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters in destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Additionally, the country’s numerous museums and galleries offer a window into its rich history and culture, making it a haven for tourists.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, it’s important to know what vaccinations are recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel to this destination. (Be sure to visit your doctor at least a month prior to your trip to get any vaccines or medicines you may need.)

Recommended vaccines for travel to Greece

As of November 2023, here are the current CDC guidelines:

Routine vaccinations

Vaccines the CDC recommends prior to every trip include those for chickenpox (varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP), flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), polio, and shingles.

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection. It spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets or small particles containing the virus, which can then enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth of an uninfected person (or contaminate surfaces, in some cases). 

For everyone who is eligible, the CDC also recommends being up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is primarily spread when an uninfected person consumes food or water that has been contaminated by the feces of an infected person, or when an infected person uses dirty hands to prepare food.

This vaccine is recommended for most travelers and is particularly recommended for those who will be engaging in higher-risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas, or eating street food.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is spread when blood, semen, or another bodily fluid from someone who is infected enters the body of someone who is not infected, as can happen during sexual contact, sharing drug-injection equipment, or during birth from mother to baby. 

The CDC recommends this vaccine for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 going to Greece, and notes that those 60 years old and up may get vaccinated prior to traveling to Greece.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, airborne disease that can lead to a variety of complications, including death. It is spread when an uninfected person comes into contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (for example, from coughing or sneezing) or breathes the air that was breathed by someone with the condition. 

The CDC recommends that infants 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally get one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before their trip. (The dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.)

(Note that measles is also listed among the CDC’s “routine vaccinations” above.)

Rabies is a viral disease most often spread through the bite of an infected, or “rabid,” animal. It infects the central nervous system in mammals, causing disease in the brain and, ultimately, death.

The CDC notes that Greece is free of dog rabies but that the disease may still be present in wildlife species (especially bats). The organization recommends rabies vaccination prior to a trip to Greece only for those who will be working directly with wildlife on their trip, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers who will be working with specimens from mammals.

Last-minute reminders

Prior to any travel to Greece, be sure to check the official CDC Traveler’s Health page , as vaccination recommendations may have been updated since the publication of this article. 

As you gear up to immerse yourself in Greece’s enchanting blend of ancient history and Mediterranean charm, from the iconic ruins of Athens to the sun-kissed beaches of the Greek Isles, prioritize your well-being. Remember, being well-prepared with vaccinations is the cornerstone of a carefree and deeply rewarding Greek odyssey.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

Greece, Italy lift proof-of-vaccination rules ahead of summer travel

Italy has nixed its Green Pass for most indoor spaces, and Greece will reevaluate vaccine certificates in September

The Washington Post is providing this news free to all readers as a public service.

Follow this story and more by signing up for national breaking news email alerts.

Greece and Italy lifted covid-19 restrictions over the weekend, nixing respective proof-of-vaccination requirements in two of the most popular destinations for Mediterranean vacations.

Greece discarded a requirement Sunday to show proof of vaccination or recovery from covid to enter indoor and outdoor spaces. Greek health minister Thanos Plevris announced the changes last month, citing “epidemiological data” and expert advice.

The country also lifted nearly all covid rules for domestic and international flights, the Associated Press reported , though masks will be required for passengers. Greece’s civil aviation authority did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. Visitors flying to the country from the United States previously had to show proof of vaccination, recovery from the disease or a negative test.

A local’s guide to Athens

Greece has seen a recent uptick in coronavirus cases. Daily cases in Greece increased by 16 percent over the past week, with 423 new cases per 100,000 people over the past seven days, according to tracking data compiled by The Washington Post through Monday.

Plevris said last month that the measure is temporary and would be reviewed Sept. 1. Masks, meanwhile, will remain required indoors until June 1.

Should the U.S. lift its entry test rule? 5 health experts weigh in.

Italy also eased restrictions in recent days, scrapping its passenger locator form as of Sunday, and dropping its Green Pass requirement — which demonstrates proof of vaccination, recovery from covid or a negative test result — for places such as restaurants and cinemas. The pass is still required for some settings, including hospitals.

Greece lifted its requirement that visitors fill out a passenger locator form in March.

The Mediterranean countries join a number of other destinations that have relaxed or entirely dropped their pandemic entry requirements in recent months. The United Kingdom lifted its remaining pandemic travel rules in March, joining nations such as Iceland and Norway.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Vaccine Basics
• Vaccines by Disease
• Vaccines by Age
• VaxView Vaccination Coverage
• Vaccine Schedules For You and Your Family
• Vaccine Resources
• Vaccines By Disease
• Vaccines Used in the U.S.
• Immunization Schedules
• Current VISs
• What's New with VISs
• Storage and Handling
• Emergency Use Authorization
• Immunization Program Resources
• Requirements and Laws
• Meetings, Conferences, and Events
• Immunization and Vaccine Product Summaries

Related Topics:

• View All Home
• Vaccines for Your Children
• Vaccine Information for Adults
• Pregnancy and Vaccination

Recommended U.S. immunizations and non-routine immunizations for people in certain jobs and travel situations.

Recommended vaccines by disease

Vaccines are available for these 21 dangerous or deadly diseases. Over the years, these vaccines have prevented countless cases of disease and saved millions of lives. People need different vaccinations, depending on their age, location, job, lifestyle, travel schedule, health conditions or previous vaccinations.

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Influenza (flu)
• Meningococcal
• Pneumococcal
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Vaccines recommended for travel and some specific groups

People in certain research jobs and travel situations may be exposed to dangerous or deadly diseases that are no longer common in the U.S. Because of the increased risk of disease exposure in these instances, these 9 non-routine vaccines are available, listed below by disease. These are considered non-routine vaccines because they are not part of the recommended immunization schedules for children, adolescents and adults.

• Japanese Encephalitis (JE)
• Tuberculosis
• Typhoid Fever
• Yellow Fever

Related pages

• Childhood Vaccine Information for Health Care Providers
• Maternal Vaccine Information for Health Care Providers

Vaccines & Immunizations

Vaccination is one of the best things you can do to help protect yourself from serious diseases.

For Everyone

Health care providers, public health.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked