Risk / Health Info for Turkey

What vaccinations should I get for Turkey?

Canadian Travel Clinics advisers tell you what immunizations you need to go to Turkey. Recommended shots for Turkey include vaccines against the GI infections, typhoid and hepatitis. There is a combined hepatitis A and typhoid shot, which may be appropriate for you: ask your adviser during your appointment.

Rabies occurs in Turkey so you should protect yourself with the shot, particularly if you will be working with animals or are at risk of animal bites (for example if you plan to run or cycle). Children are also at elevated risk as they may be bitten while playing with an animal. If you are bitten by an animal in Turkey, seek urgent advice even if you have had the vaccine as you may need post-exposure prophylaxis.

You may wish to consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis B. Some groups are more at risk of contracting this infection, including children and people who travel frequently. Long-stay travellers should also ask about this shot. If you think you may need a medical procedure during your time in Turkey, vaccination against hepatitis B may be appropriate.

What medical facilities are there in Turkey?

There are some good quality healthcare facilities in Turkey. Ensure you have travel health insurance and access to funds in case you need healthcare in Turkey.

The emergency number in Turkey is 112.

Altitude in Turkey

Parts of Turkey 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 Turkey

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Turkey 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 Turkey

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 Turkey.

polio in Turkey