From a strong Empire to an annihilated and divided nation after World War II, Germany has always held a significant place in European history. The country is now reunified and standing strong again. Preserved medieval cities, traditional small villages, gorgeous Alpine landscapes, enchanting forests, splendid rivers and lakes… Germany is charming and picturesque, offering many natural, cultural and historical wonders to its visitors. Gastronomy is another one of Germany’s treasures. Forget the cliché of sausages and pretzels accompanied by a big mug of beer and be prepared to taste a delicate cuisine composed of countless exquisite seasonal and regional dishes.
HEALTH INFORMATION
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 changes on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
GERMANY – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| 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. |
| Measles – Rubella – Mumps | Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given. |
| Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats. 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. |
| 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 |
| Hepatitis A | 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). |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Presence. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| Lyme disease | Presence. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
Germany offers excellent health care, since the reception of the patient to treatments. The country has a performing public health care system, with a modern infrastructure and sophisticated medical equipment. There are numerous hospitals spread across the country. But medical care remains quite expensive in Germany and some people complain about the lack of medical staff and the little time doctors give to their patients (their kindness and helpfulness are however in no way called into question). Be aware that many doctors, hospitals and pharmacies in the country don’t accept any payment by credit card.
In case of emergency in Germany, call 112. Ambulance services are fast and efficient.
Access to quality medicines is very good in the country. But it is always a good idea to bring your personal medical set.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
