Travel smart to Poland with health and immunisation in mind

Why health preparation matters

Poland is a popular destination for tourism, work, study, and family travel. It has a strong healthcare system and public health standards similar to other European nations. Most health issues encountered by travellers are common and preventable, often linked to routine immunisation gaps, seasonal infections, outdoor exposure, or changes in environment. Planning ahead supports a safer, more comfortable trip.

Common illnesses travellers may encounter

Respiratory infections such as colds, influenza, and COVID-19 circulate throughout the year, particularly in colder months and crowded indoor settings. Gastrointestinal illnesses can occur, usually related to food handling, travel fatigue, or disrupted routines. These conditions are usually mild but can disrupt travel plans if preventive steps are overlooked.

Routine immunisations to review

Before travel, it is important to confirm that all routine vaccinations are up to date. This typically includes protection against measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, seasonal influenza, and COVID-19. Measles outbreaks continue to occur across Europe, and polio activity has increased globally in recent years, making boosters particularly relevant for some adults.

Travel-specific vaccination considerations

Depending on your itinerary and activities, additional vaccines may be discussed with your GP or travel doctor.

Hepatitis A vaccination is commonly recommended, as infection can occur through contaminated food or water, even in destinations with generally good hygiene standards.

Polio booster vaccination may be advised for adult travellers, particularly if childhood vaccination status is uncertain or incomplete.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccination may be appropriate if you plan outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or cycling in forested or grassy areas. Ticks are active mainly from spring to autumn and can be present in both rural and peri-urban environments.

Rabies vaccination is not routinely required for short-term visitors, but may be considered for long stays, occupational exposure, or activities involving potential contact with wildlife, as rabies remains present in animal populations.

Hepatitis B vaccination may be discussed for longer stays or situations involving potential exposure to blood or body fluids.

Food, water, and hygiene considerations

Food safety standards in Poland are generally high, and tap water is safe to drink in most urban areas. Maintaining good hand hygiene, choosing freshly prepared food, and staying well hydrated help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal illness, particularly during busy travel periods.

Outdoor exposure and seasonal factors

Outdoor travel is common in Poland, especially during warmer months. In tick-prone areas, wearing long clothing, using insect repellent, and checking skin after outdoor activity can reduce infection risk. During winter, colder temperatures and air pollution in some regions may worsen respiratory symptoms in people with asthma or chronic lung or heart conditions.

Managing existing health conditions

If you live with a chronic medical condition, bring enough medication for the duration of your trip, stored in original packaging, along with copies of prescriptions. Travel routines, climate changes, and physical activity may affect symptom control, making preparation especially important.

Travel insurance and healthcare access

Healthcare facilities in Poland are of good quality, but visitors may be asked for proof of insurance or payment upfront. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

When to speak with your GP

A pre-travel consultation around six to eight weeks before departure allows time to review immunisation status, assess individual risks, and plan preventive measures tailored to your itinerary and health history.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.