Canada Travel Guide PDF 3

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Well on Your Way THY TRAVEL ABROAD

A CANADIANS GUIDE TO HEAL
Travel.gc.ca/health
Published by the Public Health Agency of Canada and Foreign Affairs, Trade and CONTENTS
Development Canada
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................... 2
To obtain more information or additional free copies of this booklet, check Know before you go.............................................................................................................. 3
travel.gc.ca/publication, email enqserv@international.gc.ca or call 1-800-267-8376
Protecting the health of Canadian travellers ..................................................................... 3
(in Canada) or 613-944-4000.
BEFORE YOU GO.................................................................................................................. 3
This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.
Individual pre-travel health assessment ........................................................................... 3
Ce document est aussi disponible en franais sous le titre Un bon dpart un guide Where to get travel health advice........................................................................................ 4
sant lintention des voyageurs canadiens. Invest in your health............................................................................................................ 5
Obtain travel health insurance............................................................................................ 6
Information in this publication is readily available for personal and public non-
Immunization and malaria prevention................................................................................ 9
commercial use and may be reproduced, in part or in whole and by any means, without
charge or further permission from the Public Health Agency of Canada or Foreign Travelling with prescription drugs..................................................................................... 11
Affairs, Trade and Development Canada. We ask only that users exercise due diligence Travelling with a pre-existing medical condition.............................................................. 12
in ensuring the accuracy of the materials reproduced; that the Public Health Agency of Older travellers ................................................................................................................. 13
Canada and Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada be identified as the source; Travelling while pregnant ................................................................................................. 15
and that the reproduction not be represented as an official version of the materials
Travelling with infants and children.................................................................................. 16
reproduced, nor as having been made in affiliation with the agency and the department
or with their endorsement. Travelling to your country of origin.................................................................................... 17
Travelling abroad to seek medical care and alternative therapies................................... 18
All information in this publication is provided on an as is basis without warranty of Cruises .............................................................................................................................. 21
any kind, either expressed or implied. The Public Health Agency of Canada and Foreign Business travel.................................................................................................................. 21
Affairs, Trade and Development Canada make all reasonable efforts to ensure that
Mental health and travel .................................................................................................. 22
the information contained in this publication is accurate at the time it is published.
The Government of Canada, as the publisher, is solely responsible for the accuracy, Long-term travel................................................................................................................ 22
completeness, timeliness and reliability of any such information. The information, Be prepared to acclimatize................................................................................................ 23
however, is subject to change at any time without notice. Consult travel.gc.ca, the
Government of Canadas website for Canadians travelling or living abroad, and the WHILE YOU TRAVEL .......................................................................................................... 25
resources in the For More Information section of this booklet for the most up-to- Avoiding disease................................................................................................................ 25
date information. Readers are also encouraged to supplement this information with Avoiding accidents and injuries ....................................................................................... 30
independent research and professional advice. Violent crime while travelling ........................................................................................... 32
Common health concerns ................................................................................................. 32
Her Majesty the Queen in Right
of Canada, represented by the Minister
IF THINGS GO WRONG ...................................................................................................... 34
of Health and the Minister of Foreign
Medical emergencies ........................................................................................................ 35
Affairs, 2014
WHEN YOU RETURN .......................................................................................................... 38
Cat. No. E34-1/2014E-PDF
FOR MORE INFORMATION.................................................................................................. 39
ISBN 978-1-100-23163-1
INTRODUCTION KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Travel Health Notices
(travel.gc.ca/healthnotices);
Standards of safety, hygiene information on specific
The Government of Canada you can protect yourself diseases and health
and medical care in other
has developed this booklet to against many common and conditions; and
countries may differ from
help you protect your health preventable travel-related country-specific health
those in Canada. These
while travelling or living illnesses. recommendations.
differences can seriously
abroad. It includes essential
affect your health and your
information on understanding
travel health risks; taking
preventive measures before,
GOING ABROAD?
ability to access medical help
while abroad. BEFORE YOU GO
during and after your travel; Be Prepared. Expect the
Before departure, you should INDIVIDUAL PRE-TRAVEL
Unexpected!
coping with a health
emergency abroad; and
learn about the health risks in HEALTH ASSESSMENT
Connect with the world and the country or countries you
accessing consular services access travel advice for more plan to visit, your own risk of Your risk of becoming sick or
in a health emergency. than 200 destinations. disease and the steps you can injured while abroad depends
We encourage you to take Wherever you go, wherever take to prevent illness and on a number of factors,
steps to reduce your risk of you are, visit travel.gc.ca/ injury. If you feel ill, consider including:
illness and accidents while advice or consult with us by delaying your departure. age;
abroad. With a little telephone (1-800-267-6788 Health, security and avoiding sex;
knowledge and preparation, or 613-944-6788), TTY injury are your responsibilities immunization status;
(1-800-394-3472) or email and should be considered current state of health
(travel@international.gc.ca). before, during and after and pre-existing
travelling abroad. medical conditions;
destination;
PROTECTING THE length of stay;
HEALTH OF CANADIAN climate and season;
type of accommodation;
TRAVELLERS itinerary and activities; and
local conditions.
Travel.gc.ca, the Government
of Canadas website for Based on these factors, a
Canadians travelling and health care provider can
living abroad, provides assess your needs and help
information to help you stay you prevent illness and injury
healthy in other countries, by providing:
including:
2 travel.gc.ca/health travel.gc.ca/health 3
vaccination against illnesses WHERE TO GET TRAVEL at the same time as others. not be covered by provincial
such as hepatitis, typhoid, When booking your appoint- health plans. Fees for these
meningococcal disease, HEALTH ADVICE ment, allow for delays, as busy services should be part of
yellow fever and Japanese travel health clinics may not be your travel budget.
Consult with a health care
encephalitis; able to see you right away. Also,
provider or visit a travel health If youre not feeling well
preventive medication if available, bring along a copy
clinic for an individual before your departure,
against malaria, gastrointes- of your immunization record
pre-travel health assessment, especially if you have a fever,
tinal illnesses and other (history of the vaccinations
preferably six weeks before consult a health care provider
conditions; and youve received) to your
travelling abroad. Some to discuss whether you
information about general appointment. For more
vaccines require more than one should postpone your trip.
precautions you can take. information, see Immunization
dose and some cant be given Doing so could help you
and malaria prevention on
avoid a possible health
page 9.
emergency abroad or
spreading disease to others.
INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH Trip cancellation insurance is
READ UP, REGISTER, REACH US Its always wise to invest in
widely available and should
be purchased when booking
The Government of Canada encourages Canadians to protecting your health before
your trip, in case unexpected
follow the Three Rs of international travel: venturing abroad. Individual
circumstances prevent you
pre-travel health assessments
Read up on safety and security, local laws and customs, from travelling.
and travel vaccinations may
entry requirements, health conditions and other key
travel topics by consulting our Country Travel Advice and
Advisories (travel.gc.ca/advice). TRAVEL HEALTH NOTICES
Register with us through the Registration of Canadians The Public Health Agency of Canada seeks to identify health
Abroad service before leaving Canada, issues that may affect the health of Canadians travelling and
so we can contact and assist living abroad. These health issues could include a current,
you in an emergency abroad emerging or changing pattern of disease or illness in a
or inform you about an destination or an event that may have an impact on the
emergency in Canada health of travellers, such as a mass gathering or an
(travel.gc.ca/register). environmental disaster.
Reach us at our Emergency When necessary, the Agency releases Travel Health Notices
Watch and Response Centre in outlining potential risks to Canadian travellers and recommending
Ottawa for urgent assistance while measures to help reduce those risks. For details, see travel.gc.ca/
abroad (travel.gc.ca/emergencies). healthnotices.
Purchase the best private WHAT TO LOOK FOR
travel health insurance you You may also want to purchase When assessing a travel
can afford, even if youre a travel insurance package that health insurance plan,
taking a day trip to the United includes flight cancellation, ask if it:
States. Its your responsibility trip interruption and/or lost
to obtain and understand the luggage coverage. Doing so can provides continuous
terms of your travel health prevent major disruptions and coverage before departure
insurance policy. Your credit additional costs. and after return, particu-
card company may offer larly if you plan to stay
health and travel insurance, abroad long enough to
but dont assume that conditions on the form and become ineligible for a
coverage is automatically then need the coverage while provincial or territorial plan;
included or that the card abroad, the insurance offers coverage renewal
alone provides adequate company may refuse to pay from abroad and for the
coverage. Some companies your medical bills. maximum period of stay;
OBTAIN TRAVEL HEALTH charge an additional premium Always carry proof of your has an in-house, worldwide,
INSURANCE for travel coverage. Others insurance coverage when 24-hour/7-day emergency
require that you use their card travelling. Also, tell your travel contact number in
Dont rely on your provincial to pay for your travel arrange- agent, a friend or relative English or French and/or
or territorial health plan to ments. Verify the conditions, at home or your travel translation services for
cover costs if you get sick or limitations and requirements companion how to contact health care providers in
are injured while abroad. before departure. your insurer. your destination country;
Provincial and territorial pays for hospitalization for
Ask your health care provider If you receive medical care
health plans dont always illness or injury and related
to fill in the portion of the while travelling, get a detailed
cover out-of-country travel. medical costs outside
insurance questionnaire on invoice from the health care
They may cover only part of Canada (treatment for some
pre-existing conditions to provider or hospital before you
the bill, and will not pay up injuries may exceed
avoid future problems. For leave the country, as it may be
front. A medical evacuation $250,000);
example, you may have a difficult to get the proper
could cost more than provides coverage for health
pre-existing condition, such paperwork from thousands of
$50,000, so its best to make care provider visits and
as borderline diabetes or high kilometres away. Most
sure you have travel health prescription medicines;
blood pressure, that doesnt insurance companies wont
insurance to cover unexpected provides direct payment of
require you to take medication accept copies or faxes of
expenses. For more informa- bills and cash advances
at this time. If you fail to receipts, but you should keep
tion, contact your provincial/ abroad so you dont have to
indicate all pre-existing copies for your own files.
territorial health authority. pay out of your own pocket;
covers pre-existing IMMUNIZATION AND and local conditions.
conditions (get an agree- Remember that preventing
RECOMMENDED ment in writing that MALARIA PREVENTION disease through vaccination
VACCINATIONS youre covered);
When travelling abroad, you
is a lifelong process.
The following is an alpha- provides for medical
may be at risk for a number REQUIRED VACCINATIONS
betical list of diseases evacuation to Canada or the
of illnesses that can be
against which vaccination nearest location with Before entering some
prevented by vaccination. As
may be recommended prior appropriate medical care;
you age, the protection you countries, you may be
to travel: pays for a medical escort
received against many required to have an
chicken pox (health care provider) to International Certificate of
illnesses through vaccination
cholera accompany you during Vaccination or Prophylaxis,
may decrease or your risk for
diphtheria evacuation; showing that youve received a
getting certain diseases may
German measles covers premature births yellow fever vaccination.
increase. Your pre-travel
(rubella) and related neonatal care, Other countries may require
health assessment provides
flu (influenza) as needed; proof of yellow fever vaccina-
an opportunity to review your
Haemophilus influenzae clearly explains deductible tion if youve passed through
immunization history, get you
type b disease (Hib) costs (plans with 100 an area where yellow fever
up-to-date according to your
hepatitis A percent coverage are more may occur. Without such
provincial/territorial immuni-
hepatitis B expensive but may save proof, you may be refused
zation program and assess
human papillomavirus money in the long run); entry, quarantined or vacci-
your needs based on your
(HPV) covers preparation and nated. In Canada, yellow fever
individual health, where you
Japanese encephalitis return of your remains to vaccination is only given at
plan to travel and what you
measles Canada if you die abroad designated yellow fever
plan to do. Additional
meningococcal disease (in most cases, costs will vaccination centres; a list of
vaccines may be recom-
mumps exceed plan coverage); these centres is available at
mended depending on your
pneumococcal disease covers emergency dental travel.gc.ca/clinic.
age, expected travel activities
polio care;
rabies covers emergency
tetanus transportation, such as
DID YOU KNOW?
tick-borne encephalitis ambulance services; and
typhoid fever doesnt exclude or signifi- Vaccination means receiving a vaccine, usually through an
whooping cough cantly limit coverage for injection, in order to be protected against a disease.
(pertussis) certain regions or countries Immunization means the process of becoming immune
yellow fever you may visit. (protected) against a disease, usually through vaccination. For
some diseases, you can also become immune if you have had
the disease and recovered from it.
Other countries may require TRAVELLING WITH Always carry with you a list of
additional vaccinations.
Before you leave Canada, its PRESCRIPTION DRUGS your medications, including
the dosage and your reason for
best to consult with the taking them, any allergies you
When travelling outside
embassy or consulate of your have, your blood type and the
Canada with prescription
destination country for MALARIA PREVENTION drugs, you should carry a note
name of an emergency contact
up-to-date information on person. Also, include the
Malaria is a common and of explanation from your contact information of your
entry and exit requirements.
serious infection in many health care provider to avoid regular health care provider
IMMUNIZATION RECORDS tropical and subtropical problems with customs (e.g. family physician). If you
countries, and it can be fatal. officials. Requirements vary end up in hospital while
Keep your familys immuniza- There is no vaccine available from country to country and travelling, this information will
tion records in a safe and against malaria. When may also include: be the first thing health care
accessible place and carry travelling to an area where providers will need. You may
copies when you travel. a clear hospital or phar- want to consider using
malaria occurs, you should macy label on the original
However, if your destination MedicAlert (see page 41).
always protect yourself against drug container that
country requires proof of mosquito bites and take Medications should be listed
yellow fever vaccination, you identifies your full name as under their generic names so
anti-malarial medication, if it appears on your passport,
must carry the original recommended by a health that theyre recognizable to
International Certificate of the name of the pharmacy, health care providers in other
care professional. the name of the medication
Vaccination or Prophylaxis. countries, where the drugs may
Keep a copy of this certificate Anti-malarial medication and the dosage; and be sold under different brand
decreases your risk but a copy of the prescription, names. Depending on the
at home.
doesnt provide 100 percent with both the generic and nature of your pre-existing
protection against the disease. brand names of the condition, your health care
Some medications available provider may recommend that
The medication must be taken medication.
in other countries may you carry additional documen-
before, during and after travel.
cause allergic reactions. tationsuch as copies of your
Consult a health care provider Youll also need this informa-
They may be counterfeit and latest electrocardiogram (EKG)
or travel health clinic for an tion if your medication is lost
may not contain any actual or of your lab, X-ray or
individual health assessment, or stolen. ultrasound reportsto assist
medication. Medication
preferably six weeks before If you wear glasses or health care providers in the
available in other countries
you travel, to determine your contact lenses, having the event you experience a health
may also have been removed problem abroad.
need for anti-malarial prescription with you will
from the market in Canada
medication. See Insect- and make it easier to replace Consult Travelling
because of toxicity or other
tick-borne diseases on page them, if needed. with Medication
concerns about its safety
26 for recommendations on (travel.gc.ca/medication)
or effectiveness. Essential medication should
how to protect yourself from for more information.
insect bites. be carried in two different
pieces of hand luggage in case security screening regulations
one gets lost or stolen. Pack change frequently without
an extra supply of medication warning and differ from
in case youre away longer country to country, its best to
than expected. Dont stop contact the embassy or
taking medication (for blood consulate of your destination
pressure, depression, etc.) or country in Canada before
decrease the dosage during a travelling to check regulations
trip because you suddenly and to allow enough time to
feel better. get the proper documentation.
Visit international.gc.ca/
Some over-the-counter out if there are health care you have that may be affected
protocol-protocole/reps.aspx
medications, dietary providers who speak your by the metal detection
for a list of foreign embassies
supplements and herbal and language in the area youll be equipment.
and consulates accredited to
homeopathic products used visiting. Canadian consular
Canada. If youre disabled and will be
in Canada are illegal for officials can provide an
import to and use in other Needles and syringes may be travelling outside North
up-to-date list of local America, visit the Disabled
countries or may require a difficult to purchase abroad, registered physicians and
prescription. Contact the so take enough to last your Peoples International website
health care facilities in your (dpi.org) for information about
embassy or consulate of your entire trip. Before packing destination country.
destination country before needles and syringes in accessibility in the country
departure to make sure both carry-on luggage, check your If you have medical needs youll be visiting. For more
your prescribed drugs and any airlines regulations and that will require attention information on international
over-the-counter medication consult What You Can Bring abroad, call each hotel or travel for disabled persons,
you intend to bring into the on a Plane (travel.gc.ca/ resort youll be visiting to see Travelling with
country are allowed. what-to-pack). discuss arrangements in Disabilities (travel.gc.ca/
advance. Be sure to bring any disabledtravellers).
If your medication requires medical supplies you may
TRAVELLING WITH A
needles and syringes, carry an need. Discuss all your travel OLDER TRAVELLERS
explanation from your health PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL plans in advance with a
care provider or a medical
certificate with you. In some
CONDITION health care provider or travel Many travellers over the age of
health clinic. 60 are in excellent health and
countries, a traveller carrying If you have a chronic medical are at little increased health
needles and syringes without Once you enter the departure
condition, carry a letter from screening area at an airport, risk when travelling. However,
an adequate explanation your health care provider some may have pre-existing
could face arrest, detention tell the screening officers
outlining your situation and about any medical implants, health conditions that could
or other consequences. Since required medications. Find worsen during travel.
artificial limbs or mobility aids
Changes in environmental If you have limited mobility or activitieswith your health TRAVELLING WHILE
conditions (e.g. heat, altitude, impaired balance, you might care provider or a travel health
humidity), activity levels, consider using a walking aid clinic well before departure. PREGNANT
living conditions, diet, time (e.g. a cane or walker) to Ask about your need for flu
If youre pregnant, visit your
zones and jet lag may be prevent falls. (influenza) and pneumococcal
health care provider or travel
harder on you as you age, vaccines, especially for trips
Older travellers should be health clinic, preferably six
particularly if you have a where youll be in large
especially mindful of the weeks before going abroad,
chronic illness. You may also crowds (e.g. if youre going on
effects of heat. Be sure to especially if travelling by air.
be at greater risk for such a cruise or an organized trip).
drink plenty of water during You may be at higher risk of
problems as dehydration, We strongly recommend that
hot weather. If youre planning certain conditions or suffer
infectious diseases and you purchase adequate travel
a holiday involving hiking or added complications from
injuries. How well you respond health insurance (see page 6).
walking, make sure youre disease. For instance,
to vaccinations may depend physically prepared for the For more information, see pregnant women have an
on your age and medical effort. A suitable exercise Older Travellers increased risk of blood clots.
history. Its important to program to prepare your body (travel.gc.ca/oldertravellers). When flying, request an aisle
discuss with a pharmacist or should be discussed with your seat and try to stand up,
health care provider whether health care provider and walk around or stretch your
your activities, travel-related practised at least a few weeks legs regularly.
vaccinations or preventive before leaving.
drugs will interact with any of You should check the airlines
your regular medications and If youre an older traveller, rules for pregnant passengers
create a problem. you should discuss the details before booking your ticket. In
of your tripdestination, Canada, most airlines will
Falls are the leading cause of length of stay and planned allow you to fly up to the 36th
injury among older travellers.
week of pregnancy, provided
youre healthy and have no
TRAVEL HEALTH KIT history of premature labour.
Pack a travel health kit so that first aid supplies and medica- Different rules may apply in
tions will be readily available in an emergency. Keep in mind other countries, and you could
that over-the-counter drugs for sale in Canada arent always be asked to supply a letter
easy to find in other countries. A travel health kit should from your health care provider
contain enough supplies to handle minor injuries and confirming the stage of your
illnesses (e.g. headaches, diarrhea and allergies) and pregnancy. Also, be sure to
manage pre-existing medical conditions. For details, see review your travel health
Travel Health Kit (travel.gc.ca/healthkit). insurance policy and the
coverage it provides. Most
policies dont automatically immunization schedule case of a more serious illness. TRAVELLING TO YOUR
cover pregnancy-related before travel. Remember to bring the
conditions or hospital care for Children are at increased following: COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
premature infants. risk for conditions such as
an adequate supply of baby Many foreign-born Canadians
diarrhea and vomiting and
For more information, see products, such as formula make trips to their country of
can develop more severe
Travelling while Pregnant and snacks; origin to visit friends and
symptoms.
(travel.gc.ca/pregnancy) and over-the-counter relatives. These travellers, and
Children are at greater risk
the booklet Her Own Way: A medications, such as especially their children, may
of exposure to certain
Womans Safe-travel Guide. acetaminophen and be more vulnerable to
health hazards, such as
packets of oral rehydration preventable diseases than
rabies. They may be more
TRAVELLING WITH inclined than adults to
salts for mixing with safe tourists because they tend to
water; expose themselves to the
INFANTS AND CHILDREN approach stray and possibly
prescription medications same health risks as the
rabid animals.
Travelling with infants and and permission letters for local population.
Children are at special risk
children can be fun and controlled drugs and
of contracting malaria If you and your family plan to
rewarding. Whether heading needles;
since preventive travel to your country of
south for a week, visiting a copy of your childrens
measures for them can origin, remember these facts:
friends or relatives in another immunization records; and
be difficult to implement a health care providers Any immunity to local
country or embarking on an (e.g. anti-malarial medica- letter outlining any chronic diseases that you may have
adventure tour, be aware that tions have an unpleasant conditions. built up in your country
children can become ill very taste) and children can of origin is considerably
quickly and may be a quickly become seriously ill When travelling by air or by diminished once you move
challenge to care for if infected. car, use an approved child away.
while travelling.
safety seat. Carry a bottle or The health risks you were
You must consider specific Make sure you arrange a pacifier to make a young child familiar with in your
and sometimes complex pre-travel health assessment more comfortable and to country of origin may have
issues when planning a trip for the children travelling with equalize ear pressure when changed.
for your family. For instance: you, preferably six weeks flying. For more information,
before departure, to ensure consult Tips for Healthy Just because you once lived
Certain travel vaccines and that their specific needs are Travel with Children in your country of origin and
preventive medications addressed. (travel.gc.ca/travelling/ are familiar with the culture
recommended for adults
Be prepared to deal with your health-safety/children). and customs, dont assume
may not be suitable for
childrens minor health that youre safe from health
infants and children.
problems yourself and know risks. For instance, extended
Infants may require an
accelerated childhood what to do and where to go in
stays in rural locations may necessarily safe; mineral and
carry greater risks. While holy waters may also be
staying with family or friends, sources of infectious diseases.
you may be exposed to Hospital and health care
untreated water and under- services may not meet
cooked food or you may stay Canadian standards.
in accommodations without Its your responsibility to
air conditioning, window research the standards of the
screens or bed nets. health care facility and the
Therefore, you must take licensing of the health care
precautions to protect provider in your destination
yourself and your family. country. Find out how the Be aware of potential Organs may also be
For recommendations, see medical services and facilities problems and risks. For harvested from vulnerable
Individual pre-travel health are accredited and how they instance: people (e.g. prisoners)
assessment on page 3. are regulated. Verify the without their consent, and
In some settings where
licensing of the facility or concerns about the
TRAVELLING ABROAD TO health care professional and
medical care doesnt meet
exploitation of donors are
Canadian standards, you
SEEK MEDICAL CARE review any complaints,
may be at greater risk of
growing. For these reasons,
comments, reports and
AND ALTERNATIVE evaluations. Even if you
acquiring an infection
transplant tourism and
selling organs are illegal in
THERAPIES research the facility and
such as hepatitis B or C, or
HIVas a result of
many countries. In addition,
staff thoroughly, theres no the safety of these organs or
More Canadians are travelling procedures you undergo.
guarantee that your experi- the surgical procedures
abroad for health care and Following surgery, you may
ence will match your used to transplant them
treatment, ranging from be more vulnerable to local
expectations. may not meet Canadian
therapeutic baths to cosmetic health risks, as your
Before making a commitment standards.
surgery to organ transplants. immune system may be
to undergo medical treatment Follow-up care is usually
No matter the reason, if youre compromised.
outside Canada, consult your not included. Discuss a
a medical tourist, you As demand increases for
health care provider or a travel plan with your health care
should understand that health donated organs, businesses
health clinic. In addition to provider in Canada to make
systems outside Canada may dealing in international
discussing your travel health- sure appropriate care is
operate very differently from transplant services have
related risks, your health care available when you return
what youre accustomed to been formed. These
provider will know your history home. You may need help
and may not be subject to the businesses pay people from
and the procedure youre for any complications, side
same rules and regulations. developing countries for
travelling to obtain and can effects or post-operative
For instance, therapies donating their organs.
advise you accordingly. care. Bring back copies of
considered natural are not
your medical records for also a risk of contracting Travel Advice and Advisories Outbreaks of infectious
your Canadian health care malaria from local blood (travel.gc.ca/advice) for diseases, such as the flu or
provider, including informa- banks in certain areas. country-specific information gastrointestinal illnesses with
tion about medications you Avoid injections or blood on medical services and diarrhea and vomiting, can
received, results of medical transfusions except in an facilities. occur on cruise ships due to
tests and a description of emergency. the close contact among
the procedure(s) you Be aware that multi-drug CRUISES passengers. Vaccination is the
underwent. resistant bacteria are best form of protection
If anything goes wrong, you present in hospitals and Cruise ships are among the against the flu. Another
may not have any legal other health care facilities safest forms of transportation important way to protect
recourse. around the world. Resulting and usually offer the services yourself from getting sick or
Be prepared to pay cash. bacterial infections can be of an on-board health care spreading germs, whether
Provincial health plans and very difficult to treat. provider. aboard ship or ashore, is to
some private insurance wash your hands well and
However, health risks can
policies may not cover For more information, see frequently.
increase depending on the
non-emergency medical Receiving Medical Care in
activities you engage in at the
procedures overseas. Other Countries (travel.gc.ca/
health) or consult the
ships ports of call. Once BUSINESS TRAVEL
The medical services in
ashore, take precautions
some countries may not Health section of the Working in a foreign environ-
about what you eat and drink
test blood for infections like ment, often under time
See the safe-travel publi
(see page 25). The safest
HIV or hepatitis B. Theres constraints, can make for a
cation Advice for Cruise
option is to take the land
excursions offered by your stress-filled stay, putting you
Travellers for additional tips at greater risk for illness. If
to ensure your well-being
ship. Otherwise, if problems
occur and you end up in you travel frequently, its wise
during a cruise (travel.gc.ca/ to arrange for regular medical
publication).
hospital, the cruise ship wont
necessarily take care of you check-ups and a pre-travel
and may even leave without health assessment before your
you. next assignment. If you intend
to take a side trip, make sure
Seasickness or motion that your pre-travel health
sickness affects some cruise assessment takes this into
passengers. Your health care consideration.
provider or travel health clinic
can discuss options to reduce
the symptoms.
MENTAL HEALTH AND impact on psychiatric
COPING WITH CULTURE SHOCK
symptoms and medications.
TRAVEL If you have pre-existing Most foreigners living overseas experience a degree of culture
psychiatric issues or disor- shock. This form of psychological stress affects even experi-
International travel can enced long-term travellers and occurs when familiar cues and
ders, see your health care
suddenly uproot you from patterns are no longer present. It is important to recognize the
provider or a travel health
familiar surroundings, which symptoms of culture shock, which may be fleeting or last
clinic to learn about precau-
can lead to mental and several months. Some of the symptoms are irritability,
tionary steps you can take.
physical stress. Travel can sleepiness, apathy, depression, compulsive eating, excessive
also intensify pre-existing
psychiatric conditions or LONG-TERM TRAVEL drinking, negative stereotyping of the local people and
recurring minor illnesses.
provoke psychological crises
If youre travelling over a long For suggestions on how to ease the adjustment process, consult
because of feelings of
period, your health risks will the publication Living Abroad (travel.gc.ca/publication) or see
uncertainty or anxiety about
be different from those of the Coping with Culture Shock (travel.gc.ca/cultureshock).
unfamiliar places. Unpleasant
short-term traveller. Youll be
or frightening experiences can
more exposed to potential
also be more difficult to cope
with while travelling because
disease risks and you may prepare for a new culture BE PREPARED TO
or job.
youre removed from your
have to take preventive ACCLIMATIZE
medication, such as anti- Youll need adequate medical
usual support systems.
malarial drugs, for a longer coverage that includes health Almost every traveller has
Many international travellers time. Youll need to learn how and dental care for the length experienced jet lag, the
experience some degree of to shop for and prepare food of your stay abroad and that physical and psychological
culture shock, the psycho- safely in your new location provides full coverage if youre symptoms you feel when you
logical stress experienced and you may need access to away from Canada long travel over multiple time
when adapting to a new health care services for enough to become ineligible zones. Symptoms include
culture or when re-entering yourself and other family for a provincial or territorial fatigue, difficulty sleeping,
your own culture after a members. plan. You may also want to poor concentration, altered
prolonged absence. Travellers consider getting enhanced life moods and gastrointestinal
A pre-travel health assess-
who are dealing with mental and disability insurance. problems. The effects are
ment will document all issues
health issues before departure Before you leave home, its generally worse for eastward
that might affect the health of
may be more prone to this wise to inform your health travel and with increasing age.
each family member (see
type of stress, so learning care providers, including your Its best to avoid caffeine,
page 3). This assessment
to recognize its signs is childrens doctor, of your alcohol and heavy meals while
could include check-ups with
important. upcoming absence from youre in the air. If youre
the optometrist and dentist,
Changes in diet, activities, as well as a psychological Canada to ensure your family travelling on business, try not
sleep and climate can have an assessment to help you will still be registered with to schedule any work until 24
them upon your return.
to 48 hours after you arrive. If
youre staying at your destina-
acclimatize at various
altitudes. If you have to make WHILE YOU When it comes to eating and
drinking while abroad,
tion for more than three days,
adjust your cycle of sleeping,
a quick ascent, some
medications may help with TRAVEL remember:
Boil it, cook it, peel it or
eating and activity to your new altitude sickness, but they
location as soon as you arrive. arent suitable for everyone. AVOIDING DISEASE leave it! Eat only food thats
been well cooked and is
Moreover, some pre-existing
When you travel from a colder While some diseases can still hot when served. Avoid
health conditions can make
to a warmer climate, your be prevented through uncooked foods (like
travel to high altitudes more
body will need time to adjust immunization, others require shellfish and salads) and
risky. If you have heart or lung
to the heat. Take it easy if you extra precautions on your part food from street vendors.
disease or diabetes, be sure to
exercise at the start of your to safeguard your health. You Fruits and vegetables that
discuss this subject with a
trip and drink plenty of fluids. may need to take preventive can be peeled are usually
health care provider before
For protection from the medications and adjust your safe to eat.
departure.
tropical sun, wear sunglasses, behaviour to reduce your risk. Avoid all unpasteurized
a hat and other protective Its wise to follow the precau- dairy products, including
clothing. Use sunblock (SPF Hand washing with soap tions below, even if youve ice cream.
15 or higher) regularly, under warm running water been vaccinated or are taking Only drink and use ice
especially if youre taking is one of the most important medications to prevent made with purified water or
medications that increase the practices in preventing illness disease. commercially bottled water
skins sensitivity to the sun. while travelling. Alcohol- in sealed containers.
Travel to areas of high altitude
based hand sanitizer can be FOOD- AND WATER-BORNE Carbonated drinks are
used if soap and water are DISEASES usually safe.
poses special risks. Oxygen not readily available, so keep
decreases as you climb higher Brush your teeth with
some in your pocket or purse. Diseases such as hepatitis A
above sea level, and rapid bottled water.
and typhoid fever are trans-
ascents to altitudes greater Wash your hands with soap
mitted when you consume
than 2,500 metres (8,200 under warm running water
contaminated food or water.
feet) can cause altitude for at least 20 seconds, as
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic
sickness, even if youre in often as possible, before
illness, can be transmitted by
excellent health. Symptoms eating or drinking. This is
skin contact in some tropical
include light-headedness, one of the best and easiest
freshwater lakes, rivers or
headache, fatigue, altered ways to prevent illness
streams. Other infections can
perceptions and sleep while travelling.
sometimes be transmitted in
disorders. The safest method Use alcohol-based hand
public bathing facilities,
for climbing is a gradual sanitizers if youre not able
including water parks.
ascent, taking your time to to wash your hands. Its
a good idea to always
have some with you when also tuck the cuffs of your arent readily available in within a year of returning to
you travel. pants into your socks, Canada, a travel health clinic Canada, even if you took an
Avoid swimming, wading, shoes or boots and tape can advise you how to anti-malarial medication while
bathing or washing clothes them in place. purchase permethrin and travelling, see a health care
in polluted or contaminated Use insect repellent on pre-treated gear before or provider immediately and
water. exposed skin. Insect during your trip. explain that youve travelled
repellents containing DEET to or lived in an area where
INSECT- AND TICK-BORNE or Icaridin (also called For more information, consult there is a risk of malaria.
DISEASES Picaridin) are the most Insect Bite Prevention Infection with malaria is
effective; use as directed (travel.gc.ca/health). considered a medical
Many travel-related diseases,
by the manufacturer. Apply If youre going to areas where emergency.
like dengue fever, malaria or
sunscreen first, if needed, malaria exists, consult your
tick-borne encephalitis, are
transmitted by infected
followed by the repellent. health care provider or travel ANIMAL-BORNE DISEASES
Stay in well-screened or health clinic for an individual You can become ill from
insects such as mosquitoes,
completely enclosed travel health assessment. Be animal bites, from contact
ticks, fleas or flies. Be aware
air-conditioned rooms or sure to take anti-malarial with animal fluids or feces or
of peak biting times (e.g.
sleep under an medication as prescribed and by eating food made with or
daytime vs. night-time biting
mosquitoes) and areas (e.g. insecticide-treated bed net. dont stop taking it until you from contaminated animals,
indoor vs. outdoor, rural vs. Inspect your body and finish the full course. If you including meat, fish and dairy
urban) in which certain clothing for ticks during have a reaction or illness products. Rabies, brucellosis,
insects may appear. Scorpions outdoor activity and at the when taking the medication, leptospirosis and certain viral
and biting spiders can also end of the day. Wear see a health care provider hemorrhagic fevers are all
pose a risk in hot climates. light-coloured or white immediately to get another spread through contact with
clothing so that ticks can method of malaria prevention. animals or animal products.
Your first line of protection be more easily seen. If you become sick with fever Reduce your risk of infection
against any insect- or Apply a permethrin insecti-
tick-borne disease is to cide to your clothing and
practise protective measures other travel gear for greater
to avoid insect bites: protection. Use only
Wear light-coloured, products manufactured for
long-sleeved, loose-fitting clothing and gear and dont
shirts that are tucked in at use them directly on skin.
the waist, long pants, shoes Permethrin-treated clothing
(not sandals) and a hat to is effective through several
cover exposed skin. In washes. Although per-
tick-infested areas, you can methrin-treated products
by avoiding close contact with is likely. Be particularly disease), young children (six
wild, captive or domestic careful to prevent children months to five years of age)
animals in any area where from approaching or handling and pregnant women are more
infection is being reported or animals. likely to become seriously ill
from all types of flu and may
INFLUENZA (FLU) VIRUSES wish to take extra protective
PROTECT YOURSELF measures, such as avoiding
Influenza viruses can spread
FROM RABIES! easily among humans, birds large gatherings and crowds.
Avoid direct contact with and pigs. A few simple steps Avian influenza subtypes
all wild or domestic can help protect you and normally circulate among
animals, especially others from the flu: birds but can infect humans
dogs and monkeys in and cause severe illness. If
Get vaccinated.
developing countries. youre travelling to a destina-
Wash your hands with soap
Dont handle, feed or tion where avian influenza is a
under warm running water fluids. Reduce your risk of
attract wild animals with concern, avoid high-risk areas
for at least 20 seconds, as infection by avoiding unpro-
open garbage cans or such as poultry farms and live
often as possible. tected sex, sharing needles
litter. animal markets; contact with
Practise proper cough and and other equipment for drug
Instruct children to birds, including chickens,
sneeze etiquette. Cover use, any medical or cosmetic
avoid wild or domestic ducks and wild birds; and
your mouth and nose with procedure that penetrates the
animals, even if they surfaces that may be contami-
your arm to reduce the skin (including acupuncture,
appear friendly. nated with bird droppings or
Prevent bats from spread of germs. If you use piercing and tattooing) and,
a tissue, dispose of it as secretions; and make sure except in an emergency, blood
entering living quarters.
soon as possible and wash that all poultry dishes and transfusions and organ
If youre bitten by a poten- your hands afterwards. eggs are well cooked. transplants. In some countries,
tially rabid animal, wash the Try to avoid close contact Additional information is the blood or organ supply
wound thoroughly with soap with people who are sick. available at fightflu.ca. might not be adequately
and water and get medical Keep shared surfaces clean. screened, increasing the risk
attention immediately.
PERSON-TO-PERSON of virus transmission.
If you have difficulty getting You may be at risk not only of INFECTIONS
treatment for rabies seasonal flu but also of Certain diseases can be
(obtaining rabies vaccine several other strains of Diseases transmitted through spread from person to person
and rabies immunoglobulin influenza. Travellers 65 years blood, such as hepatitis B, without direct physical
after an incident), contact of age and older, those with hepatitis C and HIV infection, contact. Tiny infected droplets
the nearest Canadian chronic medical conditions are spread from person to that spread through the air
embassy or consulate person by direct contact with when someone coughs or
(e.g. diabetes, heart disease,
(travel.gc.ca/offices). infected blood or other bodily sneezes can cause the flu,
kidney disease, respiratory
meningococcal disease and precautions you would at Know the informal rules of Avoid waters where shark
tuberculosis. Close contact home and by being aware the roadin some coun- attacks are known to occur.
with people in buses, planes ofand attentively following tries, drivers will sound Avoid electrical outlets in
and other crowded and local traffic laws. their horn or flash their spas and near swimming
enclosed places may increase headlights before over pools.
Make sure you have travel
your risk, so wash your hands taking another vehicle. Never scuba dive alone or
health insurance coverage
frequently. Be particularly vigilant in a without proper instruction or
for both illness and injuries
country where the traffic certification from a repu-
sustained in accidents.
DISEASES TRANSMITTED Know the risks of renting
drives on the left side of table training organization,
FROM SAND AND SOIL motorcycles, scooters and
the road. such as the Professional
mopeds, particularly from Association of Diving
Bacteria found naturally in
sand and soil can cause unregulated agencies, and
ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES IN Instructors (PADI). Dont
infection if they come into be sure to wear a helmet RECREATIONAL WATERS use alcohol and stay well
and protective clothing to hydrated and rested before
contact with broken skin. Recreational watersinclud-
minimize the risk of injury. diving, only dive within the
Wear shoes to prevent ing oceans, lakes, rivers,
Your travel insurance may limits of your training and
penetrating wounds and avoid swimming pools and spas
not provide coverage for follow local diving guide-
direct contact with soil in can pose health and safety
locations where infections these activities. risks. Use common sense in lines. Check that your
such as tetanus are reported Obtain information about or near the water. Avoid insurance provides coverage
or likely to occur. Some traffic regulations, vehicle alcohol, wear a life jacket for accidents and injuries
parasites, such as intestinal maintenance practices and aboard any watercraft related to scuba diving, or
worms, also live in soil and the road system of the and take the following take out special diving
can infect you if you eat countries youll be visiting. precautions: insurance that covers the
soil-contaminated vegetables. Before renting a car at your high cost of decompression
Watch for signs of dan chamber treatment. When
destination, check the tires,
gerous waters like rip snorkelling, watch out for
AVOIDING ACCIDENTS seat belts, spare wheels,
currents (discoloured or jellyfish, biting and stinging
lights and brakes.
AND INJURIES Dont drive if youre under
unusually choppy, foamy fish and coral.
water with debris) while Watch your children! Use
the influence of drugs
TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS swimming. If a strong appropriately sized and
or alcohol. current carries you from
Traffic accidents are the most certified life jackets. Lack
Dont get into a vehicle if shore, swim parallel
common cause of death of adult supervision is the
you think the driver may
to the beach until the most common factor in
among travellers under 50 have been drinking or
current stops, then turn childrens deaths by
years of age. You can reduce taking drugs.
toward shore. drowning.
your risk by taking the same
VIOLENT CRIME WHILE problem starts. Bring along an Recreational drug use can also Dont accept drinks from
oral rehydration solution, lead to serious safety risks, as strangersdrugs may be
TRAVELLING especially if youre travelling well as physical and mental added to beverages and put
with children; several brands health problems. Drug dealers you at risk of sexual assault,
There is a risk of violent crime
are available in drug stores in may not know (or reveal) robbery and other crimes.
in any country. Criminals
Canada. Ask your health care exactly what they are selling; Also, be mindful that local
often target tourists and
provider or travel health clinic drugs laced with other laws may not tolerate
business travellers. See
for more information on substances or chemicals or drinking, especially binge
Country Travel Advice and
self-treatment of diarrheal contaminated by fungi or drinking. The importation,
Advisories (travel.gc.ca/
illness. Most cases of moulds can be harmful, possession and use of alcohol
advice) for country-specific
travellers diarrhea will clear resulting in bad drug reactions, are strictly forbidden in some
recommendations you can
up in a few days. If your including fatal overdoses. countries. To find out if
follow to reduce the risk of
symptoms persist for more alcohol is permitted in your
violent crime. Alcohol strengths vary widely,
than two days during travel destination country, contact
and the alcohol available on
or after you come home, or if that countrys embassy or
COMMON HEALTH you have bloody diarrhea or
your travels might be stronger
consulate in Canada before
than what youre used to.
CONCERNS fever, you should see a health
Some drinks, particularly
travelling. For more informa-
care provider. For more tion, see Alcohol, Drugs and
alcoholic beverages, may
GASTROINTESTINAL ILLNESS information, see Travellers
contain harmful substances.
Travel (travel.gc.ca/drugs).
By far, the most common Diarrhea (travel.gc.ca/
The contents of any bottle,
travellers complaint is diseases).
even brand-name bottles, may
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED
diarrhea. Travellers diarrhea have been altered. Locally INFECTIONS
is caused by bacteria, viruses
RECREATIONAL DRUG AND brewed liquors can be If you have unprotected sex,
or parasites found in local ALCOHOL USE especially dangerous. you could be at risk of various
water supplies used for Although recreational drugs sexually transmitted infections.
drinking, washing and may be readily available in Many sexually transmitted
preparing food. See Food- some countries, their pur- The Government of Canada infections have periods with no
and water-borne diseases on chase, consumption, import does not and cannot symptoms when the infection
page 25 for precautions you and export are prohibited authorize Canadians to use can still be spread to others,
can take to protect yourself. virtually everywhere. If you marijuana for medical so an infected individual may
break the law in another purposes in other countries. not even know he or she is at
The most important treatment
country, you are subject to that Canadians are subject to the risk of transmitting disease.
for diarrhea is to get water
countrys judicial system. So laws and judicial systems of The risk for sexually trans-
back into your body. Drink
dont agree to transport, hold, the country in which they mitted infections is higher
plenty of safe fluids (bottled
buy or use illegal drugs under are travelling. among travellers who engage
water, diluted juices or sports
drinks) as soon as the any circumstances. in unprotected sex (anal, oral
or vaginal), casual and/or
anonymous sex and sexual IF THINGS GO
CONSULAR SERVICES FOR TRAVELLERS
activity with sex-trade workers.
If youre sexually active,
WRONG Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada has more
follow these precautions for If you become ill and require than 260 offices worldwide, where consular officials can
safer sex and to reduce the medical assistance while assist Canadians travelling, working and living abroad.
spread of infections: abroad, be aware that stan
dards of medical care vary For a complete list of Canadian consular services and more
Pack a supply of high- information on planning a safe and problem-free trip:
greatly from country to country
quality latex or polyurethane
and even within countries. consult travel.gc.ca/servicesoffered;
male or female condoms
More choices are generally call 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or
before travelling. Use them
available in urban rather than 613-944-6788;
consistently and correctly for
rural or remote areas. However, contact us via TTY by calling 1-800-394-3472 (in
every sexual activity.
options for specialized Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-1310; or
Be aware that other birth
treatment may be nonexistent check the Country Travel Advice and Advisories,
control methods do not
or inadequate in some including health information provided by the Public
protect you against HIV or
countries. Health Agency of Canada, at travel.gc.ca/advice.
other sexually transmitted
infections.
Discuss vaccinations for
hepatitis A, hepatitis B and MEDICAL EMERGENCIES services are uncommon in
human papillomavirus many countries. Use the most
(HPV) with a health care Major tourist hotels, including readily available transport to
provider. There are no those in developing countries, get to the hospital.
vaccines against other often have in-house physi- If you have a medical
sexually transmitted cians who provide medical emergency while abroad,
infections, including HIV. assistance to guests. Hotels consular officials at the
can also arrange appoint- nearest Canadian embassy
For further recommendations ments with local physicians. or consulate can:
and information, consult Many health care providers
Sexually Transmitted have a fixed fee and will agree provide an up-to-date list of
Infections (travel.gc.ca/STI). to make house calls to a local registered physicians
hotel room on a priority basis. and health care facilities
(e.g. hospitals, dental
If you need urgent care, the clinics, sexual assault
best option is often the counsellors, mental health
nearest hospital. Ambulance crisis services);
help you to identify contact your health However, Canadian consular can make a collect call
different options to obtain insurance company if you officials cannot: (where available) to Foreign
necessary medical care; are unable to communicate Affairs, Trade and
pay hospital or medical
help you in a medical and there is no designated Development Canada in
bills;
emergency by offering family member or friend to Ottawa at 613-996-8885.
pay for air ambulance or
appropriate assistance, take responsibility; Or contact the Emergency
other aeromedical services;
subject to your consent to contact your medical doctor Watch and Response
provide medical or legal
release personal informa- in Canada; Centre by email at
advice;
tion to a third party, unless help you arrange for a
make a medical diagnosis; sos@international.gc.ca or
there is a medical reason medical evacuation and safe
or by fax at 613-943-1054.
that makes this impossible; transfer, including liaison In locations where Canada
interfere in or make
identify and contact your with service providers, if does not have a local office,
decisions regarding your
next of kin or another person necessary treatment is not some Australian or British
medical care.
designated by power of available locally; and government offices can
attorney to make decisions issue a temporary loan from EMERGENCY SERVICES provide you with emergency
if you are incapacitated; the Distressed Canadian services and contact the
act as an intermediary with Fund, subject to consular Canadian government offices nearest Canadian govern-
local authorities and fees and strict conditions, abroad offer 24-hour ment office on your behalf.
medical facilities abroad if you are in a situation assistance, seven days a Before you leave Canada,
and provincial/territorial deemed life-threatening by week. Outside office hours, check the directory of
healthcare services and a medical professional and your telephone call will Canadian embassies and
medical facilities in all other financial options automatically be transferred consulates abroad at
Canada; are exhausted. to a consular officer in Ottawa travel.gc.ca/offices.
or youll be asked to leave a
message for a return call. In
either case, there will be a
prompt response.
If you leave a recorded
message, make it clear and
leave a complete telephone
number or contact address.
From some countries, you
can use a toll-free number
to speak to a consular
officer in Ottawa. Also, you
WHEN YOU what, if any, treatment or
medical care youve received FOR MORE Travel Health Notices
The Public Health Agency of
RETURN (e.g. blood transfusions,

injections, dental care, INFORMATION Canada releases Travel Health
Notices that outline potential
surgery). health risks to Canadian
The rise in global travel has
increased the possibility of
GOVERNMENT OF travellers and recommend
bringing diseases back into
If youve been taking medica- CANADA measures that can be taken to
tion to prevent malaria while help reduce those risks.
Canada. Examples include
travelling, you must continue The Government of Canadas travel.gc.ca/healthnotices
SARS (severe acute respira-
to take it for the full course website for Canadians
tory syndrome) in 2003
prescribed, even after your travelling or living abroad Travel Health and Safety
and the H1N1 influenza virus
return to Canada. If youve travel.gc.ca Essential information on
in 2009. All travelling
been to an area where malaria understanding travel health
Canadians have a responsi- Country Travel Advice and
occurs and you develop fever and safety risks and preven-
bility to protect their own Advisories
within a year of returning tive measures to take before
health while abroad and to Country Travel Advice and
home, seek medical attention and during your trip.
guard against importing Advisories (travel.gc.ca/
immediately. Anti-malarial travel.gc.ca/health
diseases that could affect the advice) provide vital informa-
medication doesnt guarantee
health of others. tion on safety and security, Alcohol, Drugs and Travel
absolute protection against
If you become sick (e.g. fever, malaria. local laws and customs, Information and advice to
shortness of breath) or if health conditions and entry help you understand and
symptoms of an existing requirements for more than avoid risks related to alcohol,
medical condition worsen 200 travel destinations. This drugs and travel.
while abroad and youre still information is also available travel.gc.ca/drugs
sick when returning to by phone: 1-800-267-6788
Canada, tell a flight attendant, (in Canada and the U.S.) or
cruise staff or border services 613-944-6788.
officer upon arrival.
If you develop symptoms after
returning, see a health care
provider. Explain where youve
been travelling or living and
Publications (free) Stay connected CITIZENSHIP AND MEDICALERT
Access safe-travel publications Twitter (@TravelGoC) IMMIGRATION CANADA medicalert.ca
at travel.gc.ca/publication Facebook (facebook.com/ cic.gc.ca
or order them by calling travelGoC) 2005 Sheppard Avenue E.,
1-800-267-8376 (in Canada) Foursquare (foursquare.com/ 1-888-242-2100 (in Canada) Suite 800
or 613-944-4000. travelgoc) TTY: 1-888-576-8502 Toronto, ON M2J 5B4
Email Travel Updates (in Canada, from 8 a.m. 416-696-0267
FOREIGN AFFAIRS, (travel.gc.ca/updates) to 4 p.m. ET) 1-800-668-1507
RSS feeds (travel.gc.ca/rss)
TRADE AND MedicAlert provides
OTHER SOURCES OF
DEVELOPMENT CANADA PUBLIC HEALTH AGENCY Canadians with customized
INFORMATION bracelets and necklets linked
CONSULAR SERVICES OF CANADA to their medical records. This
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION information can be accessed
General Yellow Fever Vaccination FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE TO in an emergency by health
1-800-267-6788 (in Centres in Canada TRAVELLERS (IAMAT) professionals anywhere.
Canada and the U.S.) or travel.gc.ca/clinic iamat.org
613-944-6788
WORLD HEALTH
TTY: 1-800-394-3472 PASSPORTS, 519-836-0102 or ORGANIZATION (WHO)
(in Canada and the U.S.)
or 613-944-1310 CERTIFICATES OF 416-652-0137
info@iamat.org
who.int
travel@international.gc.ca IDENTITY AND TRAVEL WHO publishes International
Emergencies
DOCUMENTS IAMAT provides a worldwide Travel and Health, offering
directory of qualified English- guidance on health risks
613-996-8885 (call collect speaking health care providers,
from abroad where available)
PASSPORT CANADA travellers may encounter at
passportcanada.gc.ca hospitals and health care specific destinations and
sos@international.gc.ca centres. associated with different types
1-800-567-6868 (in Canada of travel.
Canadian embassies and
and the U.S.)
consulates abroad
TTY: 1-866-255-7655
travel.gc.ca/offices
40 travel.gc.ca/health
TRAVEL HEALTH TIPS
Get a pre-travel individual health assessment from a
travel health clinic or your health care provider.
Make sure you have full travel health insurance coverage

for both illness and injury.
Be prepared to acclimatize to jet lag, altitude sickness,

culture shock and the effects of heat.
Carry proof of your need for any prescription drugs.
Take precautions with food and water.
Wash your hands often.
Drink plenty of safe liquids to prevent dehydration.
Remember to take your anti-malarial medication,

if prescribed.
Remember to take precautions against insects.
Use a sunblock with a minimum SPF of 15.
Remember to use protection if you have sex while

travelling.
Never share needles and syringes.
Remember that swimming in contaminated water poses

risks, including exposure to parasites.
See your health care provider immediately if you become

ill with fever within a year of your return to Canada from
an area known to have malaria.

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Well on Your Way THY TRAVEL ABROAD

RETURN (e.g. blood transfusions,

Make sure you have full travel health insurance coverage

Be prepared to acclimatize to jet lag, altitude sickness,

Carry proof of your need for any prescription drugs.

Take precautions with food and water.

Wash your hands often.

Drink plenty of safe liquids to prevent dehydration.

Remember to take your anti-malarial medication,

Remember to take precautions against insects.

Use a sunblock with a minimum SPF of 15.

Remember to use protection if you have sex while

Never share needles and syringes.

Remember that swimming in contaminated water poses

See your health care provider immediately if you become

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