Travel clinic Greece
Travel health and vaccine advice for Greece
Greece

 

Athens, Delphi, Heraklion, Mykonos… All these names arouse a great curiosity. Greece’s recent economic collapse gives a really heartbreaking vision of such a fascinating country, which should never be forgotten by travelers. Strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and Asia, Greece was once home to the powerful ancient Greek civilization, cradle of Democracy. Inestimable archaeological treasures are scattered across the country and still bear witness today to its glorious past. From its myriad of jewel islands and their picturesque white and blue houses to the summit of Mount Olympus, Greece is a genuinely hospitable country offering stunning natural and cultural wonders. 


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.

GREECE – 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

Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS).
Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea Azithromycin or Suprax

MEDICAL CARE

The Greek health care system is victim of the severe economic crisis the country has recently been through. Many public hospitals suffer from serious shortages of medicines and adequate medical equipment. Health care professionals are insufficient and not always qualified. It is good to know that you can find private medical establishments providing quality health care following international standards in Athens and Thessaloniki. In the Greek islands, access to medical care remains limited and in case of serious sickness or injury requiring surgical care, the patient needs to be evacuated to the major hospitals located on the mainland.

If you need an ambulance in Greece, call 112. You interlocutor will usually be able to speak in English.

Access to medicines is good in the country, and major cities host many pharmacies. But it is always safer to bring your own essential medicines to avoid unpleasant surprises, especially if you intend to go to remote islands.

 

 

SECURITY ABROAD

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and luggage theft, is common in tourist areas and on public transportation. This includes the trains to and from Athens International Airport.

SAN JOSÉ WEATHER

CANADIAN EMBASSY

Emergency services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

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