Portugal has sometimes a misleading Mediterranean appearance, but it is definitely deeply linked to the Atlantic Ocean. The Western European country can be enjoyed in many ways. Its gentle climate and sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing holidays. Outdoor-lovers will be stunned by the diversity of the natural landscapes. Those with a passion for history will be fascinated by the rich past of Portugal. Celts, Romans, Visigoths, to mention just a few, have fought for its territory and have all left countless fascinating vestiges behind them. While hungry-travelers will fell in love with the delicious Portuguese food and its fish and seafood delicacies…
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.
PORTUGAL – 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). |
| Dengue Fever | Could be present. All travellers should protect themselves against mosquito 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
Portugal has an excellent, modern and well equipped health care infrastructure in urban areas. But in rural places, access to quality medical care can sometimes be more limited. If you have one, don’t forget to bring your European Health Insurance Card when going to Portugal. Medical fees, hospitalization costs and pharmaceutical products are taken in charge if you hold this card. If you don’t, be prepared to pay all your potential medical expenses.
If you need an ambulance in Portugal, call 112. Emergency services in the country are fast and efficient.
Pharmacies are numerous and well supplied in Portugal. They sell medicines of reliable quality. But if you intend to go to remote places, it is always better to bring your own medical supplies to avoid nasty surprises.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
