Risk / Health Info for Uruguay

What vaccinations do I need for Uruguay?

Your shots should be up to date before you travel to Uruguay. Hepatitis A and typhoid shots are recommended, to protect you from unpleasant two food- and water-borne illnesses. Watch out for “travellers’ diarrhea” in Uruguay. You can reduce your chances of contracting a GI illness by remembering: if you can’t peel it, cook it or boil it, don’t eat it. Use commercially bottled water for drinking and for ice cubes.

Hepatitis B shots are also recommended, especially for travellers who plan to visit Uruguay often or stay for an extended period, or for people who work in healthcare or dentistry. Children should also get vaccinated against hep B. It is spread by contact with infected blood or body fluid so avoid unprotected sex, and invasive cosmetic or medical procedures – including tattooing or piercing – and invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

Animals in Uruguay can carry rabies. If you intend to visit remote regions or work with animals – particularly bats and dogs – consider getting this vaccination. Children should also be protected against rabies because they are at risk when playing with animals. Runners and cyclists are also at risk of getting bitten. Always seek immediate medical advice about any animal bite or scratch in Uruguay, even if you have had your rabies shot.

Are there hospitals in Uruguay?

Montevideo has three private hospitals that offer emergency service and accept tourists without medical insurance. However, fees must be paid before you leave the hospital. Canadian health insurance does not cover you when you leave the country, so consult your provincial or territorial health authority before you leave for Uruguay.

The emergency medical number in Uruguay is 105.

Protect your health in Uruguay

Some mosquito-borne illnesses such as chikungunya and dengue fever are present in Uruguay. Avoid getting bitten by using a reliable insect repellent and wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Sleep in air-conditioned accommodations or under a net wherever possible.

Dengue fever in Uruguay

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Uruguay. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Chikungunya virus in Uruguay

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Uruguay. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.