Risk / Health Info for Philippines

Do I need shots for Philippines?

Your Canadian Travel Clinics can help you make sure your shots are up to date before you go to the Philippines, including measles. You should also consider vaccinations against food- and water-borne illnesses such as hepatitis A and typhoid. A shot against Japanese encephalitis is also recommended, especially if you plan to be around rice paddies.

Animals in the Philippines can carry rabies, so make sure your vaccine is up to date. Avoid contact with wild or domestic animals such as dogs and bats. Children are particularly vulnerable to bites. Always get prompt medical attention for any bite or scratch, even if you have had your shot.

Are there hospitals in the Philippines?

The quality of medical care varies throughout the Philippines. Many hospitals require a deposit with regular payments if hospitalization is required, or if you require a full-time caregiver. Make sure you have travel insurance and access to sufficient funds before you go to Philippines. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

The emergency number in the Philippines is 911.

Should I be concerned about mosquito-borne illnesses in the Philippines?

Several mosquito-borne illnesses are prevalent in the Philippines. You should take precautions against mosquito bites, including malaria, Zika, dengue fever and lymphatic filariasis, in addition to Japanese encephalitis. Women who are pregnant or might become pregnant should consider avoiding visiting the Philippines. Avoid getting bitten by covering up as much as possible, using a reliable insect repellent, and sleeping in air-conditioned or screened accommodation or under a net. At least six weeks before you leave for the Philippines, consult your Canadian Travel Clinic for anti-malaria pills and the vaccination against Japanese encephalitis.

Altitude in Philippines

Parts of Philippines 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 Philippines

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Philippines 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 Philippines

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 Philippines. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

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

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 Philippines.