AF flagModerate riskAsia · Southern Asia

Afghanistan 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.

Required

COVID-19

Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines before traveling.

Recommended

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all travelers to Afghanistan age 1 year and older.

Recommended

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated travelers under 60. Those 60 and older may also consider vaccination.

Recommended

Measles

Measles cases are increasing worldwide. Ensure you are fully vaccinated with MMR at least two weeks before travel.

Recommended

Polio

Polio risk exists in Afghanistan. Ensure polio vaccination is complete or get a booster if previously vaccinated.

Recommended

Typhoid

Typhoid vaccination is recommended for most travelers to Afghanistan, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with local contacts.

Recommended

Cholera

Cholera is widespread in Afghanistan. Vaccination may be considered. Practice safe food and water precautions.

Situational

Rabies

Rabid dogs are common in Afghanistan and rabies treatment may not be available. Consider pre-exposure vaccination if at risk.

Situational

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccination is not needed for Afghanistan.

Situational

Disease risks

Malaria

Malaria risk exists in areas below 2,500 meters elevation from April to December. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed.

Moderate risk

Altitude Sickness

Wakhan Corridor (~4,000m), Hindu Kush (>6,000m peaks), Salang Pass (~3,900m); high risk for mountaineering; acclimatize via lower routes.

Moderate risk

Traveler's Diarrhea

All areas; poor sanitation and water quality.

Moderate risk

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

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Sources: 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.