Seychelles
Scattered across the Indian Ocean off the Southeastern coasts of Africa, the islands of the Seychelles are a haven for nature lovers. The Seychelles chose to turn to ecotourism and a large part of the archipelago is dedicated to nature reserves, where Giant Tortoises and other native species can easily be approached. If almost every island of the Seychelles has idyllic beaches dotted with giant boulders and bordered with palm trees, each one has its own identity waiting to be discovered. The expensive prices of the Seychelles may keep low budget travelers away, but a trip to the archipelago is absolutely worth it.
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.
SEYCHELLES – 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. |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – 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 |
| 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 Seychelles, it is hard to find quality medical care, especially if you go outside of the main cities. The only public health care facility in the archipelago is the Victoria Hospital, located in the capital city, on the island of Mahe. This establishment can be reached at 224 400. Several private hospitals and clinics can be found in the Seychelles. They usually provide good quality care. In the event of serious sickness or injury, an air evacuation to another country is required.
In case of emergency in the Seychelles, you can call an ambulance at 999.
Pharmaceutical establishments in the archipelago are few and often very badly supplied. It is thus essential that you bring basic drugs and all the specific treatments you could need while traveling in the Seychelles.
SECURITY ABROAD
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is increasing. More serious crimes, such as burglary, robbery and theft from parked cars have also been reported. Tourists are typically targeted.
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 999 for emergencies requiring fire and police forces.
Dial 151 for medical assistance.
