Health tips for travellers

Measles cases are on the rise in several regions across the globe, including multiple provinces in Canada and states within the United States.
If you are planning to travel, ensure that your measles vaccination is up to date. Adults born in 1970 or later need to have received two doses of vaccine to be considered adequately protected. For children, verify that they are following a current immunization schedule. For certain destinations, the vaccine may be administered as early as six months of age.
The measles vaccine is free of charge to all residents of Quebec, including individuals without a Quebec health insurance card, such as international students, asylum seekers, and others.

An increase in yellow fever cases has been reported in South America, with ongoing outbreaks in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. Yellow fever is a serious and potentially fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The primary means of prevention is vaccination against yellow fever, complemented by protective measures against mosquito bites (refer to the Mosquitoes section below). 

Important note: Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required for entry into certain countries. However, even in several South American countries where vaccination is not mandated, the risk of yellow fever remains significant. Vaccination is therefore strongly recommended for travellers planning to visit at-risk regions, such as the Amazon. It is advised to consult a travel health professional prior to departure to obtain appropriate advice and the required vaccinations.

Consult a travel health clinic for medical advice and the required vaccination prior to departing for Umrah or Hajj. This year, an outbreak of meningococcal infections has been linked to Umrah. Meningococcal meningitis is a severe and potentially fatal illness, transmitted through contact with the nasal or throat secretions of an infected individual. Vaccination against this disease is mandatory for participation in the pilgrimage. For more information regarding health risks and preventive measures during the pilgrimage, please visit the Government of Canada website.

The majority of dengue cases acquired abroad by travellers from Quebec in 2024 and 2025 originated in the French West Indies, particularly in Guadeloupe and Martinique. Dengue is a mosquito-borne disease that causes flu-like symptoms, and, in some cases, can lead to severe illness involving major bleeding. See the Mosquitoes section below to learn more about how to protect yourself against mosquito bites.

Cuban public health authorities have issued an alert to tourists following an increase in hepatitis A cases in recent months. Some travellers from Quebec have also contracted the disease during recent stays in Cuba. Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection that is typically transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water. Vaccination is the best way to prevent hepatitis A, along with the preventive measures outlined in the Food and Water section below. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that you are fully vaccinated against hepatitis A.

Human cases of rabies have been reported following animal bites in public areas across the country. Rabies is a fatal disease, primarily transmitted through exposure to the saliva of infected animals. The Dominican Republic, popular with travellers from Quebec, remains a high-risk destination for rabies. See the Animals section below to learn more about how to protect yourself, or discuss this risk with a healthcare professional during your pre-travel consultation.

Oropouche fever is on the rise in some South American countries (mainly Brazil, but also Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru) and on certain Caribbean islands (including Cuba and the Dominican Republic). Several travellers have contracted the disease while visiting Cuba. Transmitted by mosquitoes and midges, Oropouche fever can cause fever, as well as symptoms such as headaches and generalized pain. Be sure to take preventive measures against mosquito bites while staying in these countries. Pregnant individuals should take extra precautions and seek a pre-travel health consultation.