Penang- Vaccinations

I'm off to Penang in August and want to know what vaccinations are recommended. I have checked a few websites but they are unclear about which ones you MUST have. They mostly recommend you have them all just to be on the safe side. What do you think? (we're also going to Hong Kong) Thanks.

Malaysia is probably as safe health-wise as the whatever part of the the world you come from. This UKsite says tetanus and hep A vaccinations are usually advised (as well as being up to date with the vaccinations recommended in your own country). Seems like good advice to have these vaccinations even if you are staying home.

Also protect yourself from being bitten by mosquitoes during the day due to the (small) risk of dengue fever.

Malaysia - no vaccinations beyond what you'd have at home. Where I live I have flu (annually), tetanus and Hep A and B. Hep B only because I used have occasional contact with a high risk group.

Hong Kong the same. Both have high public health standards, and good medical services. Tap water is potable in both also.

Nah, you don't need to worry about jabs in Malaysia. As for mosquitoes borne disease like Dengue, it only happens in congested squatter areas, stay away from them. Just be careful with the water you drink from roadside eateries. Keep to bottled water.

Would'nt bother with it! Save the money and spend it on roti's and curry!

We did'nt bother with bottled water the water is safe to drink from the tap.

Went last year and again this year with 11 old son, none of us had a problem!

Yes save your money, would not bother. Penang have some of the best medical facilities in the country. Just drink bottled water and while eating by the road use common sense, watch out for dirty looking food preparers.

This is a really interesting site which rates the quality of tap water in almost every country!

Water Safety Ratings - world-wide

You should have tetanus wherever you are. For the rest ask your doctor and follow his advice or don't. No need to bother with Hep A, Hep B only if you have close (very close) contact or need a blood transfusion.