Travel Vaccines and Advice for Ireland
With its rolling green hills, Ireland is a country loved for its natural beauty and history. Its capital city, Dublin, was founded as a Viking settlement and is now a popular city famous for its universities and pubs. From charming countryside bed-and-breakfasts to ancient castles, Ireland offers gorgeous sites and fascinating new things.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Ireland?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Ireland
Do I Need a Visa for Ireland?
What Is the Climate Like in Ireland?
How Safe Is Ireland?
Kissing the Blarney Stone
What Should I Pack for Ireland?
U.S. Embassy in Ireland
Do I Need Vaccines for Ireland?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Ireland. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Ireland: 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:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Ireland |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
Routine Vaccinations for Ireland |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| 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. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that spread easily. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the CDC’s top recommendation for preventing these diseases. It offers comprehensive protection against all three viruses, ensuring the safety of both individuals and the community.
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 Ireland
Prevent Bug Bites in Ireland
Prevent bug bites by covering up and using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If bitten, wash the bite, resist scratching, and soothe with hydrocortisone or antihistamines. Seek urgent care for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Ireland
When eating abroad, prioritize cooked and hot foods, choose reputable eateries, and practice good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages, avoid tap water, and enjoy hot drinks or alcohol responsibly. To avoid travelers’ diarrhea, follow these tips: eat well-prepared foods, drink safe water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be selective about local dishes.
Do I Need a Visa for Ireland?
No, travelers do not need a visa when traveling to Ireland for tourism for a period of three months or less. You should have a passport that is valid throughout the entire period of your intended trip.
Ireland Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Ireland? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Ireland and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Ireland?
Ireland is famous for its rainy weather. While rain is most likely to occur during the winter months, weather can change quickly. Most rainstorms disappear as quickly as they arrive. This keeps the rain from disrupting most people’s plans.
The weather in Ireland tends to be fairly identical across the entire island. Because of Ireland’s position and the currents that warm its waters, it tends to have mild weather. The temperatures in the summer months are in the high-60’s. During the winter, temperatures are in the 40’s. The temperature rarely falls below freezing, and heavy snowfall is rare on the island.
Because of Ireland’s latitude, the sunset and sunrise times change greatly. Sunset in the summer can be well after 11 PM, while in the winter the sun may set as early as 4:30 PM.
How Safe Is Ireland?
If you’re traveling to Ireland, it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you:
- Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any suspicious activity or people.
- Keep an eye on your valuables like your passport and money, and don’t leave them unattended.
- Only use reliable transportation like taxis or public transportation.
- Be careful when using ATMs and always cover your hand when entering your PIN.
- Learn about local laws and customs, and follow them.
- Stay connected with a phone or Wi-Fi in case you need to call for help.
- Remember that Ireland can have unpredictable weather, so be prepared for rain or wind.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Ireland.
Kissing the Blarney Stone
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Blarney Castle is a medieval castle built before the year 1200 located in County Cork. The castle was involved in a few different wars and sieges over the centuries. It has been rebuilt three separate times, the last time in 1446.
The castle is one of Ireland’s best-known and most popular tourist destinations. This is partially because of the tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone. This stone has many legends to describe its origin. Some say it was the stone struck by Moses in the Bible that began to gush water. But, it is known for its mythical ability to give “the gift of gab”—or eloquence—to those who kiss it. Visitors from all over the world and of all walks of life come to Ireland to kiss the Blarney Stone.
What Should I Pack for Ireland?
When you’re packing for a trip to Ireland, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Ireland has unpredictable weather, so bring clothes that you can layer, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes. Don’t forget to bring an adapter if you’re coming from a different country, so you can charge your electronic devices.
You’ll also want to bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights in Ireland. Bring some cash for smaller purchases or if you’re visiting more rural areas. Bringing a travel guide or map can also help you explore the country and learn more about its history and attractions.
Be sure to bring any medication you need and your personal toiletries like toothbrush and toothpaste. Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, and an umbrella to stay dry in case of rain. A daypack is also useful for carrying your essential items like snacks, water, and extra layers.
A portable charger is handy to have so you can charge your phone or other electronic devices on the go. By packing these essentials, you’ll be prepared to enjoy your trip to Ireland to the fullest!
U.S. Embassy in Ireland
The U.S. embassy in Ireland offers many services to American citizens who are traveling or living in Ireland. Some of these services include helping with passports, emergencies, travel information and cultural events. If someone loses their passport or needs an emergency medical, they can go to the embassy for assistance.
The U.S. embassy to Ireland is located in the capital city of Dublin.
U.S. Embassy Dublin
42 Elgin Road
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Phone: +353 1 668-8777
Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program before your trip to stay up-to-date on all important travel notifications in the country.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Ireland
Overall rating: 5 stars – 4 reviews
★★★★★
“Good experience“
“We were greeted warmly. We learned a lot about traveling to Ireland and were provided with all the information we need to have a safe and comfortable trip.”
Submitted by: Kristen
★★★★★
“Easy Trip Help“
“Very thorough, helpful and nice. Had everything we needed and all of the most current information for travel to our country of destination – Ireland.”
Submitted by: Keri
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“This was my first time to a Passport Health location and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. After leaving the appointment I felt educated, knowledgeable, and prepared for our trip to Ireland. The atmosphere was comfortable and the man who ran our appointment was friendly, helpful, and able to easily explain what was needed for our trip.”
Submitted by: Shelley
★★★★★
“Great experience“
“The nurse that met with me was very friendly, knowledgeable, and had a sense of humor. She was interested in my trip, helped with immunization choices, and provided more in-depth information on Ireland.”
Submitted by: Dawne
“We were greeted warmly. We learned a lot about traveling to Ireland and were provided with all the information we need to have a safe and comfortable trip.”
“Very thorough, helpful and nice. Had everything we needed and all of the most current information for travel to our country of destination – Ireland.”
“This was my first time to a Passport Health location and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. After leaving the appointment I felt educated, knowledgeable, and prepared for our trip to Ireland. The atmosphere was comfortable and the man who ran our appointment was friendly, helpful, and able to easily explain what was needed for our trip.”
“The nurse that met with me was very friendly, knowledgeable, and had a sense of humor. She was interested in my trip, helped with immunization choices, and provided more in-depth information on Ireland.”
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