Australia is a paradise for nature lovers. From the lush tropical forests of the North to the dusty Red Center and the temperate climate of the South, the landscapes of Australia are spectacular and diverse. With its iconic kangaroos and koalas, among many others, the wildlife here is unique in the world. The Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, Uluru… Many natural wonders await travelers in Australia. Take a road-trip, experience camping in the Outback, be amazed by the vibrant city life of Sydney and the cultural atmosphere of Melbourne… There are endless ways of enjoying the “country of no worries”!
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.
AUSTRALIA – 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. |
| 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 |
| 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. |
| 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- |
| 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
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
Health care in Australia is excellent. The country has numerous medical facilities providing high quality health services, especially in large cities. The medical equipment in the country is modern and well maintained. General practitioners and specialists in Australia usually have private practices, but it is also possible to find them in public hospitals and private clinics. Medical fees and treatments are however quite expensive in Australia. If you are in a remote area, you can obtain medical care from the Flying Doctors, especially in case of emergency.
In case of emergency in Australia, call 000.
Quality medicines are widely available. But it is always a good idea to bring your own medical set to avoid unpleasant surprises.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 000 for emergency assistance.
