Resorts lying on private islands, surrounded by cyan-blue waters home to millions of colorful fish and whiter-than-white beaches fringed by coconut trees is a common image of the Maldives. With its glamorous luxury and postcard landscapes, it is no wonder that the Indian Ocean archipelago is so popular among honeymooners and those looking for a sumptuous tropical getaway. But there is good news for backpackers. The Maldives no longer have to be appreciated only from the spacious swimming-pool of an expensive hotel and are now accessible for the independent traveler wishing to explore the country island after island, while immersing himself into the friendly local population.
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.
MALDIVES – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| The Yellow Fever Vaccine | A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. It is important to note that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to your departure. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: https://www.who.int/ith/ith- |
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Hepatitis B | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever | 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 |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika | There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
In the event of a sickness or injury while traveling in the Maldives, it is advised that you go to the ADK Hospital located in Male, the capital city. This establishment provides medical care of satisfying quality for basic health care issues. But in the event of medical complications or a serious injury, an air evacuation to another country is required. Air ambulance services are available at any time in the Maldives.
In case of emergency, call 102.
Be aware that many islands in the Maldives have no pharmacies. It is thus essential to bring a medical kit containing sufficient medicines to the archipelago. Antidiarrheal drugs are particularly advised in the Maldives, as the changes of climate and diet often result in stomach disorders.
SECURITY ABROAD
There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include:
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 119 or +960-332-2111
- medical assistance: 102
- firefighters: 118
