Germany

Find Out What Vaccinations You Need For

Germany is a diverse and vibrant country that offers travelers from the U.S. a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling cities of Berlin and Munich to the picturesque towns of the Bavarian Alps, Germany has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the country's rich history by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, or by immersing themselves in the country's art and music scene. Germany is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like sausages, sauerkraut, and pretzels, as well as its world-renowned beer. With efficient public transportation and friendly locals, Germany is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Europe.

Routine Immunizations

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before traveling. Note that many vaccines that are now considered "routine" were not available until recent decades so you may not have received them at all, depending on your age and other factors. Here are a few specific vaccines we would like to call your attention to:

Flu, RSV and Covid-19: Make sure you are up-to-date to minimize your risk of ruining your trip due to illness.
Tetanus should be updated every 10 years especially if you're traveling.
Hepatitis A and B: Hepatitis B was not part of the routine immunization schedule in the U.S. until 1995 and hepatitis A did not become a part of routine childhood immunizations until 2006. So if you were born before 2005 you may need one or both of these vaccines. Many people opt for Hep A only because it is commonly spread through food and water, but Hep B spread through blood and other body fluids is essential too--especially if you find yourself in an under-resourced hospital in the developing world.
Polio: There is currently a global outbreak of polio and the U.S. CDC is recommending adults who have been fully immunized as children get a single life-time booster as an adult before traveling to many global destinations. The CDC's list of polio outbreak countries is constantly updating so check the CDC's polio list to see if your destination is on the list.

Infants, 6 to 11 months old should receive one dose of MMR prior to visiting Germany. This does not count toward routine childhood immunizations.

Germany Immunization Recommendations and Requirements

Rabies Vaccine

CDC recommendations

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

About Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease spread through the bite of rabid animals. The rabies virus infects the brain and spine of mammals, ultimately leading to death. Once the disease is established there is no effective treatment and most people die from it.

About the Rabies Vaccine

A 2-dose pre-exposure rabies vaccine is available. The vaccine provides protection against rabies for up to 3 years.

Tick-borne Encephalitis Vaccine

CDC recommendations

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas
TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.
TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found.

About Tick-borne Encephalitis

TBE is a virus spread through the bite of an infected tick. Most people infected with TBE experience no symptoms but some have severe symptoms including infection of the brain (encephalitis) or the membranes around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

About the TBE Vaccine

The TBE vaccine is a 3-dose series given at 0, 14 days and 5 months. The vaccine has been in use in Europe for over 20 years. The TBE vaccine is not available for infants under 1 year old.

Talk to a travel health specialist

At Away Clinic we specialize in getting travelers ready for their trips to the world's most exotic destinations. We would be glad to assist you at the following locations:

Phoenix AZ Clinic

Chandler AZ Clinic

Scottsdale AZ Clinic

To set up an appointment, see our self-scheduling page, call us at (480) 712-8865‬, or email us.