Colorful tulip fields going as far as the eyes can see dotted with gently turning windmills… Picturesque canal towns crisscrossed by endless bike paths… Rembrandt and Van Gogh masterpieces… But also odd coffee shops and window girls… The iconic Netherlands show many facets. Historically a nation of explorers and traders, the country has conquered its land on the sea through its ingenious dikes and polders. Sociable, cultured, highly tolerant and over honest, the population of the Netherlands is modern and open-minded. Sometimes depicted as a country where discipline and rigor are the rule, the Netherlands have many surprises in store for its visitors.
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.
NETHERLANDS – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| 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 A | Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating” |
| 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
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
Health care of excellent quality is easily accessible all around the Netherlands, as numerous public and private modern medical facilities are found in the country. The medical equipment is always adequate and absolutely following international standards. Medical professionals are well trained and competent. Public medical facilities can be divided in three different categories in the Netherlands : university medical centers, teaching hospitals and general hospitals, all of very satisfying quality. Note that private medical establishments can be very expensive.
In case of emergency in the Netherlands, call 112. Ambulance services in the country are usually fast and efficient.
Pharmaceutical establishments are widely available in the Netherlands. They are well stocked and sell good quality and reliable medicines. But it is always a good idea to bring your own medical supplies, especially if you require specific treatments.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
