Introduction

Planning to stay in the Philippines for several months or even years? Whether you’re coming to Cebu as a student, remote worker, retiree, or long-term tourist, staying healthy during your extended stay should be a top priority.

Tropical diseases, unfamiliar bacteria, and differences in healthcare systems can pose risks to foreigners unprepared for life in Southeast Asia. Fortunately, most risks can be significantly reduced with the right vaccinations, proper hygiene practices, and awareness of the local healthcare landscape.

This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the vaccines you should consider before arrival, health precautions to take while living in Cebu, and practical medical advice for staying safe and well.

1. Recommended Vaccinations for Long-Term Stay

✅ Routine Vaccinations

Make sure your standard vaccinations are up to date, especially if you’re staying more than a few weeks. These include:

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

• Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap)

• Polio (IPV)

• Influenza (Flu shot, annually)

✅ Strongly Recommended for the Philippines

These vaccines are specifically advised for long-term travelers or residents:

• Hepatitis A – Spread via contaminated food and water.

• Hepatitis B – Spread via blood, sex, or medical exposure.

• Typhoid – Food- and water-borne; particularly important if eating street food.

• Rabies – Especially if you’ll be around animals or in rural areas.

• Japanese Encephalitis – Advised for those staying in rural regions for extended periods.

✅ Optional (Risk-dependent)

• Dengue Vaccine (Dengvaxia) – Only for those who’ve had dengue before; not for first-time travelers.

• COVID-19 Booster – Strongly advised due to changing variants.

• Tuberculosis (TB) Screening – Especially for those working in education or healthcare.

2. Where to Get Vaccinated in Cebu

Vaccines are more reliably available in Metro Manila, but Cebu also has quality providers.

Recommended Clinics & Hospitals:

• Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital – Has an international travel medicine section.

• UCMed (University of Cebu Medical Center) – Offers Hepatitis A/B, Tdap, typhoid.

• Chong Hua Hospital – Fuente – Often has Japanese encephalitis and rabies vaccine.

• The Medical City Cebu – Good for flu, tetanus, and COVID boosters.

• DOH Regional Centers – May offer low-cost options for locals and long-term residents.

Tip: Bring your vaccination record and passport. Some vaccines require a cold chain—book in advance.

3. Disease Awareness: What to Watch Out For in Cebu

Dengue Fever

• Transmitted by: Aedes mosquitoes (day-biting)

• Symptoms: High fever, rash, muscle pain

• Precaution: Use insect repellent, sleep under nets, avoid stagnant water

Leptospirosis

• Transmitted by: Water contaminated with rat urine (e.g. floods)

• Symptoms: Fever, vomiting, red eyes

• Precaution: Avoid floodwaters, wear boots in rainy season

Typhoid & Hepatitis A

• Transmitted by: Contaminated food or water

• Precaution: Only drink purified water, avoid raw shellfish or undercooked meat

Rabies

• Transmitted by: Dog, cat, or monkey bites

• Precaution: Avoid stray animals; get post-exposure vaccine immediately if bitten

Tuberculosis

• Transmitted by: Airborne droplets

• Precaution: Regular health checks if you work or live in close quarters

4. Water and Food Safety

While Cebu has relatively good infrastructure, tap water is not potable.

Safe Practices:

• Drink only bottled or purified water (filtered dispensers or brands like Absolute, Nature’s Spring).

• Avoid ice from unknown sources.

• Be cautious with street food – hot and freshly cooked is safest.

• Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water.

• Carry hand sanitizer and wash hands frequently.

5. Dealing with Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Prevention Tips:

• Use DEET-based mosquito repellent (Off!, Baygon, or Sawyer brands).

• Install window screens or use mosquito nets.

• Wear long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk.

• Use electric mosquito zappers or coils indoors.

6. Pharmacies and Over-the-Counter Medication

You’ll find many international and local pharmacy chains in Cebu.

Top Chains:

• Watsons – Often located in malls, reliable.

• Rose Pharmacy – Widely available in Cebu.

• SouthStar Drug / Mercury Drug – Trusted local chains

Common Medicines Available OTC:

• Paracetamol, ibuprofen, loperamide, antihistamines

• Antacids, multivitamins, electrolyte powders

• Some antibiotics require a prescription

7. Health Insurance & Emergency Support

Options for Foreigners:

• Pacific Cross Philippines – Popular for expats

• AXA Philippines / Cigna Global / SafetyWing – International plans

• PhilHealth – Government option, but limited for non-residents

Tip: Carry digital and printed copies of your insurance policy and contact your provider to confirm hospital coverage.

8. Medical Check-Ups and Clinics for Expats

Many hospitals offer executive check-up packages, which include blood tests, ECG, X-rays, and doctor consultation for around ₱3,000–₱8,000.

Where to Go:

• Cebu Doctors’ Hospital – Executive Health Check

• UCMed Wellness Center

• Perpetual Succour Hospital – Annual Health Packages

9. Women’s Health and Sexual Health Services

• OB-GYN Clinics: Widely available in private hospitals

• STI Testing: Offered at VSMMC and select private clinics

• Birth Control: Oral contraceptives, IUD, condoms available OTC

• Emergency Contraception: Ask a pharmacist discreetly—availability varies

• Pregnancy Care: High-quality prenatal care available at private hospitals

10. COVID-19 Protocols and Vaccination

As of 2025, Cebu has largely returned to normal, but COVID boosters are still advised.

• Booster shots available at government and private clinics

• Bring vaccination certificates (digital and physical)

• Mask use is optional but recommended in crowded places

• Rapid antigen test kits are widely sold at pharmacies

11. Mental Health Resources

Mental health support is gradually improving in the Philippines.

Resources:

• Cebu Psych Center – Counseling and therapy

• The Medical City Cebu – Mental Health Unit

• Telehealth Platforms – MyPocketDoctor, NowServing, KonsultaMD

12. Final Tips for Staying Healthy in Cebu

• Stay hydrated—Cebu is hot and humid

• Pace yourself—don’t overexert in tropical heat

• Exercise regularly (gyms, yoga, walks in IT Park)

• Carry a mini first-aid kit when traveling

• Build relationships with local doctors and clinics

Conclusion

Staying healthy during your long-term stay in Cebu is not difficult—if you prepare ahead and stay vigilant. From essential vaccinations to food safety and mental well-being, this guide covers all the basics you need to thrive in the Philippines.

By taking smart precautions and knowing where to get reliable care, you can focus on enjoying the rich culture, beautiful beaches, and friendly people of Cebu—without unnecessary health worries.