General Advice

If you are travelling internationally you should be aware that conditions in other countries, both natural and man-made, may be significantly different from those in Canada and may seriously affect health and personal security during travel. Standards of hygiene may be different. Food and water may be contaminated. The climate or environmental conditions may favour disease organisms which do not occur in Canada.

A little forethought and planning, and recognition that travel to other countries is not without hazards, can make all the difference between an enjoyable, problem-free travel experience and an unpleasant experience. Health, safety, accident avoidance and security are your responsibility and should be considered both before and during travel.

It is recommended that should you become sick or feel unwell on your return to Canada, you should seek a medical assessment with your personal physician. Inform your physician without being asked, that you have been travelling or living outside of Canada, and where you have been.

The following provides general health-related advice for international travel. For your individual situation, you should consult a physician or travel medicine clinic for advice related to where you are travelling.

Advice for travellers includes various topics such as:

You can also consult  travel advice by country. This is provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) and includes health advice developed by Health Canada's Population and Public Health Branch.

Information about safety and security considerations during travel is provided by the  Travel Assistance program offered by DFAIT by phone at 1-800-267-6788 or through a fax retrieval service at 1-800-575-2500.

Health Canada also have in place inspection programs such as the Cruise Ship Inspection, in order to protect the health of travelling public both outside and within Canada.

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