The enigmatic and fascinating country of Bulgaria is located in Southeast Europe, on the Balkan peninsula. The history of Bulgaria is extremely rich. Several great ancient civilizations have fought for its territory and countless archaeological vestiges of these past powers are found today throughout the nation. Bulgaria also has plenty of magnificent churches and monasteries, bearing witness to a long tradition of religious art. Bulgaria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From the sandy beaches found on the Black Sea coastline to wild wooded mountains hiding picturesque villages, lakes and rivers, nature in Bulgaria is simply magnificent.
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.
BULGARIA – 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. |
| 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). |
| Lyme disease | Presence. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| 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. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
The health care system in Bulgaria is of satisfying quality. Medical services in the country have seen great improvements these past few years. But the limited medical infrastructure remains a serious issue in rural areas. The most important medical center in Bulgaria is the Pirogov Public Hospital, located in Sofia. Many private specialized medical practices and clinics are found in the country, like the Vita Hospital in Sofia. Be aware that you will have to pay you medical expenses immediately and in totality in this establishment, even if you are covered by a health insurance.
In case of emergency, call 150.
Pharmaceutical products in Bulgaria are usually of good quality and follow European standards, and most of the pharmacies are well stocked. But it is always safer to bring your personal medical kit.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
For emergency assistance, dial 112.
