Venezuela
Considerably less visited than other South American countries, Venezuela has however nothing to envy to its neighbors. The country has a stunning array of natural wonders, ranging from the snow capped Andes Mountains to the highest waterfalls on the planet, mighty jungles home to jaguars, anacondas and capybaras, the mythical Amazon river, palm-fringed white sand beaches, colorful reefs bustling with life and paradise Caribbean islands. The Venezuelan people have always fought to keep their liberty and identity, from colonial times to more recent political crises. From this turbulent history is born a unique and vibrant culture, filled with colorful festivals and catchy rhythms.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>
We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; However, it is impossible for us to make updates on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic to make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
VENEZUELA – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine | Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): 1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec. |
| The Yellow Fever Vaccine | A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. It is important to note that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to your departure. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: https://www.who.int/ith/ith- |
| Measles – Rubella – Mumps | Recommended for all travelers. Proof of vaccination could be required for entry. Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1956, if not previously given. |
| Flu – Influenza | Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure. |
| Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) | Recommended for all travelers |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever | Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating” |
| Hepatitis B | Consider for most travelers; recommended for those who might be exposed to blood or other body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident). |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats, dogs and other mammals. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated. |
| Chagas Disease | Presence. All travelers should protect themselves against triatomine bugs. |
| Schistosomiasis | Avoid swimming in fresh water. |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| Malaria | Malaria is present in this country. The risk may be region specific. Prophylaxis measures to be discussed with the health care professional. |
| Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika | There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin or Suprax. |
| Antimalarials Recommended | Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine |
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
MEDICAL CARE
Medical care of excellent quality can be accessed in Caracas and the other major cities in Venezuela. The Clinica El Avila, the Instituto Medico La Floresta and the Centro Medico Docente La Trinidad are greatly prized by foreigners. Numerous public hospitals are found in the country. They are free but usually lack adequate medical equipment and provide care of variable quality. In rural areas, quality medical care may be hard to find. If you face serious health issues, an air evacuation to another country may be required.
Pharmacies in Venezuela are usually well stocked but some medications may not available in the country.Therefore, we still recommend bringing your own medical set containing all the medications and prescriptions you may need during your travel.
SECURITY ABROAD
The security situation in Venezuela remains unstable and could deteriorate with very little warning. A nationwide state of exception (state of emergency) has been in effect since January 15, 2016.
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 911 for emergency assistance.
