Risk / Health Info for Greece

Canadian Travel Clinics can help you to organise any immunizations you need for travel in Europe. Before embarking on any trip to Greece, it’s best to make sure your regular vaccinations, especially for measles, are up to date. There have been some reported cases in the country.

It is highly recommended that you purchase travel medical insurance before you leave Canada because provincial or territorial health plans may not cover medical costs while abroad. Contact your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

West Nile Virus cases have been seen in Greece, so it’s best to take precautions against bug bites. Medical care in Greece can vary widely, but is usually adequate.

Altitude in Greece

Parts of Greece are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Malaria in Greece

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Greece at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Greece

MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory infection with a high mortality rate. It is caused by the coronavirus and is thought to be contracted from infected camels. You should take diligent hygiene measures such as thorough handwashing if you visit a farm, barn or market or touch a camel. Avoid contact with sick animals. Do not drink raw camel milk or urine; and do not eat camel meat that has not been properly cooked. The Government of Canada has issued a travel health advisory about Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in Greece.