Latvia is the kind of quiet-but-lovely travel destination that should be discovered now, before mass tourism becomes the rule. This Baltic state has always managed to keep its identity and culture, despite centuries of foreign occupation. Mosaic of vast forests, green pastures, old farms and picturesque villages, the typical Latvian scenery is charming. But don’t imagine one second a dull and boring country. Riga, the capital city, has one of the craziest nightlife in Europe and a vibrant cultural scene. Stunning beaches lie across the Baltic shores and the magnificent Rundale Palace, the “Latvian Versailles” is worth in itself a trip to the country.
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.
LATVIA – 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). |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Presence. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| 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
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
Health care in Latvia has seen great improvements these past few years. Medical care in Latvia is globally of satisfying quality in urban areas, but be aware that it can be limited in remote areas. Good health care following Western standards is provided in some private clinics, like the Diplomatic Service Medical Centre (www.dsmc.lv/eng/) located in the capital city, Riga. The Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital (www.stradini.lv/eng/), also in Riga, is the main hospital establishment in the country. Don’t forget to bring your European Health Insurance Card if you have one. If not, you will have to pay medical fees immediately and in cash.
In case of emergency in Latvia, call 112.
Pharmacies in Latvia sell quality medicines. Drug importation and commercialization are strictly regulated. Most of the medicines found in Latvia are produced in the country or imported from former Soviet states and other Eastern European countries. American drugs are also easy to find in Latvia. But it is always safer to bring your own medical supplies.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
Touristic Police in Riga
If you need help, dial +371 6718 1818 for assistance, available in English, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Tourist inquiry hotline
If you’re looking for advice or want to express a grievance, dial 1188. Assistance is available in English.
