Risk / Health Info for Venezuela

What shots should I get for Venezuela?

If you go to Venezuela, make sure your shots are up to date before you leave. Protect yourself against hepatitis A and typhoid, two nasty gastrointestinal illnesses spread by contaminated food or water. Take care to reduce the chance of “travellers’ diarrhea” by following good water and food precautions when you’re in Venezuela. Avoid food that you cannot peel yourself, or that has not been boiled or cooked. Use commercially bottled water for drinking and ice.

Consider a hepatitis B shot if you are planning to visit Venezuela often or stay for an extend period. Children should also be vaccinated, as should anyone planning to work in healthcare or dentistry. Spread by contact with infected blood or body fluid, hep B can be contracted via unprotected sex, dirty needles, or invasive medical procedures.

There is rabiesin Venezuela, so consider getting a shot if you might be around animals, particularly dogs or bats, or if you are going to a remote region. Children should also be protected against rabies as they are at risk of getting bitten while playing. Always get urgent medical advice about any animal bite or scratch in Venezuela, even if you have had the rabies shot.

Yellow fever is present in Venezuela, so consult our travel advisers if you have not been vaccinated. One shot protects you for life and comes with a certificate that is your proof of immunity.

What are the medical facilities like in Venezuela?

Medical care in Venezuela has deteriorated and there are shortages of equipment, medication and staff. Some private hospitals in major cities may be able to provide adequate but expensive care. Check with your provincial or territorial health authority before you leave for Venezuela because your Canadian insurance will not cover you.

Can I get my normal medications in Venezuela?

Take extra over-the-counter or prescription medications you might need with you to Venezuela. Some medications are no longer available in the country.

How can I protect my health in Venezuela

Mosquito-borne illnesses including malaria, yellow fever, Zika, chikungunya and dengue fever are present in Venezuela. Avoid getting bitten by using a reliable insect repellent, wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible and sleeping under a net. At least six weeks before you leave for Venezuela, consult our travel advisers about anti-malarial pills and yellow fever shots.

Altitude in Venezuela

Parts of Venezuela 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.

Dengue fever in Venezuela

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Venezuela. 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.

Malaria in Venezuela

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Venezuela 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.

Schistosomiasis in Venezuela

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Venezuela. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Venezuela

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Venezuela. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Venezuela. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.