Part of the former Czechoslovakia, Slovakia has grown incredibly strong since its independence, more than two decades ago. Too many travelers still imagine the country as a province of the Czech Republic… Yet Slovakia has cultural and natural wonders which have nothing to envy to those of its neighbor and is truly a nation on its own. Slovakia lies on the stunning Carpathian mountain range and hides countless intriguing caves, beautiful rivers, shimmering lakes and medieval towns home to a charming population. But the numerous magnificent fortresses and castles scattered all across the country are certainly the most superb of its treasures.
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.
SLOVAKIA – 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. |
| 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 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
| Antimalarials Recommended | Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
In Slovakia, the health care system is following international standards, and the basic medical care provided by the country’s hospitals is of good quality. If you require medical assistance while traveling in Slovakia, you can go to the Mudr Peter Strhak Medical Care or to the Medifera Medicinske Centrum, both located in Bratislava, the capital city. But in the event of serious medical issues, you will have to be evacuated to another country.
In case of emergency in Slovakia, you can call an ambulance at 112 or 115.
Medicines of good quality are easily accessible in Slovakia. There are numerous well stocked pharmacies in the country. But if you require specific treatments, it is safer to bring your own medical supplies in sufficient quantities.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
