Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ). The answers provide information that supplements our publication Well on Your Way: A Canadian’s Guide to Healthy Travel Abroad and our list of services offered.

1. Where can I find out about travel health insurance?

2. Where can I get information on diseases and health conditions in other countries?

3. Where can I find out if I need any special vaccinations before I leave Canada?

4. Are there any special medical precautions to take when travelling with children?

5. In the event of a medical emergency, how can Canadian officials help?

6. What should I do if I feel ill when I return to Canada?

7. I am returning to Canada after an extended absence abroad. Will I be eligible for health insurance right away?

1. Where can I find out about travel health insurance?

See our Travel Insurance FAQ for detailed information and advice.

2. Where can I get information on diseases and health conditions in other countries?

Consult the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health page. Our Travel Reports also contain information on health issues pertaining to specific destinations.

3. Where can I find out if I need any special vaccinations before I leave Canada?

Find out well in advance of your trip if you need any special vaccinations or preventive medications. Consult the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health page. Also, the Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that you consult your healthcare provider or visit a travel health clinic for an individual health assessment at least six weeks before departure, as certain vaccines and preventive medications take time to work. Please note that an International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is a legal requirement for entry into certain countries.

Note: Make sure that your routine immunizations ― diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis), tetanus, polio, measles, mumps and rubella ― are up-to-date. If available, bring along a copy of your immunization record when you visit a travel health clinic or your health care provider.

4. Are there any special medical precautions to take when travelling with children?

If you are travelling with infants or small children, you may need to arrange an alternative or accelerated childhood immunization schedule for them. Talk to your pediatrician, healthcare provider or travel health clinic. Consult our page on Children and Travel, as well as the destination country’s embassy or consulate in Canada, in case additional medical precautions are required.

5. In the event of a medical emergency, how can consular officials help?

Many Canadians fall ill and require medical assistance while travelling abroad. If you require medical attention, contact us.

Canadian government offices abroad can provide the following services in the event of a medical emergency:

• Provide you with a list of local doctors and medical facilities offering services in English or French.
• Report to family members back home.
• Assist in arranging for a medical evacuation to Canada or a third country, along with a medical escort. Be aware that medical evacuations can be extremely expensive, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you have appropriate travel health insurance to cover the costs.
• Help with medical insurance issues.
• Assist in obtaining financial help from family and friends if required.

6. What should I do if I feel ill when I return to Canada?

See a doctor as soon as possible. Inform the doctor of where you have been abroad. If you were ill while travelling, tell your doctor what your symptoms were and what treatment you received.

7. I am returning to Canada after an extended absence abroad. Will I be eligible for health insurance right away?

Coverage may be provided from the date you re-establish residence or following a waiting period, according to the requirements of the responsible provincial or territorial health authority. Contact a private insurance company to obtain coverage during any waiting period.