Iceland

Have a safe trip with travel vaccines and advice from medical professionals.

Travel health and safety for Iceland 🇮🇸

Iceland is a land of dramatic contrasts, where fire and ice coexist, and nature’s raw beauty takes center stage. From the otherworldly landscapes of the Golden Circle to the thundering waterfalls, steaming geothermal pools, and the mesmerizing glow of the Northern Lights, Iceland offers a travel experience unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re exploring Reykjavik’s vibrant culture or venturing into the remote highlands, every turn reveals a new wonder shaped by volcanic forces and glacial power.

While Iceland is one of the world’s safest destinations, its rugged terrain and ever-changing weather call for thoughtful preparation. Understanding local health and safety recommendations ensures you can embrace Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes with confidence and peace of mind.

Travel Immunizations for Iceland

What vaccines do I need for Iceland? Get all the information and vaccinations you need to minimize travel health risks.

Hepatitis A virus can cause liver disease, and in rare cases, liver failure and death.

  • Can be spread by fecal-oral transmission, consuming contaminated food or water, or close, personal contact with an infected person.
  • Symptoms may range from mild to severe, including fatigue, jaundice, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and joint pain.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets the liver and may cause chronic infections. 

  • Its primary mode of transmission is through direct blood-to-blood contact with an infected person. It can also be transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing needles.
  • Symptoms may range from mild to severe, including fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting and joint pain.

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted through animal bites.  

  • Symptoms may initially include fever, headache, and discomfort at the bite site, progressing to more severe neurological symptoms. Rabies is fatal if it is not treated before symptoms develop.
  • Rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.

We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.

Health Canada strongly advises travelers ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date, including:

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Guards against the varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox.

Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP)

Protects against three different bacterial infections.

Flu (Influenza)

Vaccination against seasonal influenza strains is essential.

Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Provides immunity against all three diseases in one shot.

Polio

Essential for guarding against the poliovirus.

Shingles

Offers protection against a viral infection that causes painful rashes.

COVID-19

The ongoing pandemic necessitates adherence to vaccination guidelines and preventive measures.

Iceland Concerns / Health Canada Recommendations

Most common illness for travellers, from consuming contaminated food & water

  • Affects up to 70% of travellers and risks minimized with good hygiene and safe food/drink choices (eg. avoid raw foods, ice in drinks).
  • Symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, fever, bloating.
Tick and Insect Bite Prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. Cover up and use insect repellents to protect against infection.

Over the Counter Medications for Travel to Iceland

Pain Relief

Medications such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) can be helpful for managing headaches, muscle pain, or fever. 

Anti-Diarrheal Medications

It’s advisable to carry over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (e.g., Imodium) to treat mild cases of traveller’s diarrhea. However, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens. 

Antacids

Antacids like Tums or Pepto-Bismol can provide relief from indigestion or heartburn, which can sometimes occur when trying new foods or experiencing changes in diet during travel. 

Allergy Medications

If you have known allergies, carrying antihistamines like cetirizine(e.g., Reactine) or diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl) can help manage allergic reactions to environmental allergens or insect bites. 

Motion Sickness Medications

If you are prone to motion sickness, consider carrying medication like dimenhydrinate (e.g., Gravol) to alleviate symptoms during long journeys or when traveling by car, train, or boat.

Sun Protection

It is essential to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing. 

Medical Services and Facilities in Iceland
  • Health care is excellent in most cities, but can be limited outside of urban areas.
  • Most doctors and medical staff will speak some English. Upfront payment may be required.
  • Be sure to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Consular Assistance in Iceland

Street Address: 14 Tungata, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

Telephone: (+354) 575-6500

Email: rkjvk@international.gc.ca


Website: https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/iceland-islande/reykjavik.aspx?lang=eng

We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.

Emergency Services

In case of emergency, dial: 

  • 112 for emergency assistance

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