Macedonia is located in the central Balkan peninsula. This Southeast European country is one of the successor states of the former Yugoslavia. Authentic mosaic of cultures, Macedonia is a multi-ethnic country with a tumultuous history. Its scenery is simply stunning. The country is made of a central valley fringed by mountain ranges, speckled with beautiful medieval monasteries, Byzantine churches and numerous emerald-blue lakes. It has several sublime National Parks. Contrasting with the mainly rural way of life of the country, Skopje is one of the most intriguing European capital cities, with its frenetic urban development, vibrant nightlife and numerous cultural festivals.
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.
MACEDONIA – 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
In Macedonia, the government provides public health care to everyone. Some medical services are free of charge in the country, like medical checks and vaccinations, as well as some medicines. But the medical facilities in Macedonia often lack good medical equipment and don’t have excellent health care conditions. In case of serious health issues requiring a hospitalization, an evacuation to your country of origin is advised.
In case of emergency in Macedonia, you can call an ambulance at 194.
Pharmacies in the country are usually well supplied, but it is always safer to bring your own medical set containing basic medicines and all the drugs you could need when traveling to Macedonia. This is especially important if you intend to go to remote areas where access to health care is limited.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 192
- medical assistance: 194
- firefighters: 193
