Moderate riskAsia · Southern AsiaAfghanistan Travel Health Guide
Moderate risk
Afghanistan carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists in areas below 2,500 meters elevation from April to December. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
Overall risk
Moderate risk
Malaria
Present
Best time to visit
Year-round
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines
Make sure all routine vaccinations are current before traveling to Afghanistan.
COVID-19
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all travelers to Afghanistan age 1 year and older.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated travelers under 60. Those 60 and older may also consider vaccination.
Measles
Measles cases are increasing worldwide. Ensure you are fully vaccinated with MMR at least two weeks before travel.
Polio
Polio risk exists in Afghanistan. Ensure polio vaccination is complete or get a booster if previously vaccinated.
Typhoid
Typhoid vaccination is recommended for most travelers to Afghanistan, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with local contacts.
Cholera
Cholera is widespread in Afghanistan. Vaccination may be considered. Practice safe food and water precautions.
Rabies
Rabid dogs are common in Afghanistan and rabies treatment may not be available. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if at risk.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever vaccination is not needed for Afghanistan.
Disease risks
Malaria
Malaria risk exists in areas below 2,500 meters elevation from April to December. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed.
Altitude Sickness
Wakhan Corridor (~4,000m), Hindu Kush (>6,000m peaks), Salang Pass (~3,900m); high risk for mountaineering; acclimatize via lower routes.
Traveler's Diarrhea
All areas; poor sanitation and water quality.
Malaria risk
Malaria is present in this destination. Prophylaxis medication is recommended.
Malaria risk exists in areas below 2,500 meters elevation from April to December. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed.
Emergency numbers
Police
119
Medical / Ambulance
119
Fire
119
U.S. Embassy
+93-700-108-001
Afghanistan travel health FAQ
Do I need vaccines to travel to Afghanistan?▼
For travel to Afghanistan, Routine vaccines is required for entry; COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Polio and Typhoid are recommended; Cholera, Rabies and Yellow Fever may be advised depending on your itinerary. Make sure your routine vaccinations (such as MMR, Tdap, polio and seasonal flu) are up to date, and see a travel-health provider about 4–6 weeks before you leave.
Is there malaria in Afghanistan?▼
Yes — malaria is present in Afghanistan. Antimalarial prophylaxis is recommended for most travelers, alongside insect-bite precautions such as repellent and treated bed nets.
Is it safe to travel to Afghanistan?▼
From a travel-health standpoint, Afghanistan is currently rated moderate risk. Afghanistan carries a CDC Level 2 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists in areas below 2,500 meters elevation from April to December. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
What are the emergency phone numbers in Afghanistan?▼
Key emergency numbers in Afghanistan are Police 119, Medical / Ambulance 119, Fire 119 and U.S. Embassy +93-700-108-001. Save them before you travel and confirm the current numbers with your accommodation on arrival.
More country guides
BangladeshModerate riskBangladesh carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists in specific areas of Bangladesh but not in Dhaka. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
BhutanModerate riskBhutan carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria risk exists in some parts of Bhutan. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
IndiaHigh riskIndia carries a CDC Level 1 travel health notice. Malaria is present throughout India below 2,000m elevation, including major cities. Key travel vaccines: COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B.
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Build my Trip KitSources: CDC Travelers' Health · WHO International Travel and Health. Last updated 2026-07-31. Health conditions and entry rules change — verify with the CDC, WHO and your destination’s authorities before travel. This page is informational and not a substitute for advice from a travel-medicine provider.