Syria
After being part of several ancient powerful kingdoms and empires in the past, Syria was shaken by numerous military coups in the second half of the 20th century. A recent peaceful protest against the Assad regime began in 2011, but has unfortunately grown into a violent armed conflict. This is truly heartbreaking as Syria hides inestimable treasures. The Arab nation is one of the most ancient and fascinating cradles of civilizations and saw the birth of agriculture, as well as the creation of the first alphabet. Syria has magnificent archaeological and historical vestiges scattered across its territory, and is home to an incredibly hospitable population.
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.
SYRIA – 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. |
| 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 |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats, dogs and other mammals. 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. |
| Schistosomiasis | Avoid swimming in fresh water. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Azithromycin or Suprax |
MEDICAL CARE
In Syria, the health care system is not of satisfying quality. Access to basic medical care is rather good in major cities. But in rural areas, health care facilities are extremely limited and often non existent. Most expatriates in need of medical care in Syria go to the Shami Hospital, located in Damascus, the capital city. If you face serious medical issues, an air evacuation to another country is required.
In case of emergency in Syria, call 110 for a public ambulance. You can also contact the Red Cross at 3331 441 or at 333 0755. If you wish a private ambulance, you can reach the Shami Hospital at 963 11 373 49 31. Firstmed also provides medical assistance at any time and can be reached at 963 11 88 28 03 50/51.
The Al-Jahez and Ghada pharmacies, both located in the capital city, are well supplied with quality medicines. Outside of the main cities, access to pharmaceutical products can be very limited. It is thus strongly advised that you bring your own well filled medical kit when traveling to Syria, especially if you need specific treatments.
SECURITY ABROAD
U.S. airstrike
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 112
- medical assistance: 110
- firefighters: 113
