Largely unexplored and once home to fierce headhunters and cannibals, Papua New Guinea appears like one of the most challenging destinations in the world, even for the most intrepid adventurers. Papua New Guinea’s stunning mountains and lush jungles are inhabited by singular animals, while several hundreds of different ethnic groups are living throughout the country, often in very remote areas, each community having its own language, traditions and way of life. Daring travelers visiting this remote Oceanian country are literally stepping into the great unknown… But they are rewarded by an untouched nature of a striking wild beauty and a genuine cultural shock!
HEALTH INFORMATION
Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>
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.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA – 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Information, Advice & Vaccination – Japanese Encephalitis | Recommended for the following groups visiting certain remote areas:
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| Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) | Recommended for all travelers |
| Malaria | Malaria is present in this country. The risk may be region specific. Prophylaxis measures to be discussed with the health care professional. |
| Polio | Polio vaccination is strongly recommended for travel to this region. A polio booster dose as an adult (>18 years old) is strongly recommended to travellers who have previously completed childhood polio vaccination. Proof of vaccination may be required for some travellers. |
| 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
| Antimalarials Recommended | Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine |
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
In Papua New Guinea, health care remains very precarious, as the country lacks adequate medical equipment and essential medicines. If you require medical assistance while traveling in the country, it is advised that you go to the Port Moresby General Hospital, located in the capital city. This establishment provides satisfying basic care. Outside of the capital city, only small health care centers and missionary stations can be found. Patients facing serious health issues in Papua New Guinea require an immediate air evacuation to Australia or to their country of origin.
Note that emergency services in Papua New Guinea are limited.
Basic medicines can be found in the pharmacies of the capital city. They are usually opened 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. But it is strongly advised that you bring your own medical supplies when traveling to Papua New Guinea, especially if you need specific treatments.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
There is no centralized number to reach emergency services. Research and carry contact information for local police and medical facilities.
