Italy

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

Travel health and safety for Italy

Discover the Magic of Italy: A Journey of Culture, Cuisine, and Breathtaking Landscapes

Travel to Italy is an experience that immerses you in a world of rich culture and history. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the Renaissance art in Florence, every corner of Italy tells a story. Italy’s cultural heritage is vast, with countless museums, cathedrals, and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into its storied past. As you wander through cobblestone streets, you’ll find yourself surrounded by centuries-old architecture and vibrant piazzas where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the Italian way of life.

Italy travel is also synonymous with indulging in some of the finest cuisine the world has to offer. Each region boasts its own unique dishes, from the rich pasta and hearty sauces of Bologna to the fresh seafood of the Amalfi Coast. No trip to Italy is complete without savoring the flavors of an authentic pizza in Naples or sampling world-class wines in the rolling vineyards of Tuscany. The Italian culinary tradition is one of passion and simplicity, where fresh, local ingredients are transformed into unforgettable meals.

Beyond its cultural and culinary delights, Italy is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. The serene beauty of the Italian Lakes, the dramatic cliffs of Cinque Terre, and the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside are just a few examples of the country’s diverse natural wonders. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque canals of Venice or the rugged coastline of Sardinia, Italy travel offers endless opportunities to experience the country’s unparalleled beauty and vibrant culture.

Travel Immunizations for Italy

What vaccines do I need for Italy? 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.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

  • Spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected individuals.
  • Symptoms initially resemble a common cold, followed by a characteristic rash fever, cough, runny nose, small, white spots inside the mouth and throat red eyes, sleepiness, and irritability.

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.

Italy Concerns / Health Canada Recommendations

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

  • Affects up to 70% of travelers 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.

Insect Bite Prevention





Altitude Sickness

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.

 

 

When travelling to the Alps or Dolomites, it is recommended to protect against altitude sickness. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, fatigue and difficulty sleeping. 

Over the Counter Medications for Travel to Italy

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 traveler’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 Italy
  • Health care is adequate, but varies throughout the country.
  • Facilities are generally good in cities such as Rome and Milan and in towns that have large hospitals, such as Rozzano, Verona, Florence .
  • If you’re travelling to smaller towns or to remote areas, you may need a medical evacuation to a central hospital, in the event of serious illness or injury.
  • Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Consular Assistance in Italy

Street Address:  Via Zara 30, Rome 00198, Italy

Telephone: +39 06-85444-1

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/italy-italie/rome.aspx?lang=eng

Street Address: Palazzo Pio, Via della Conciliazione 4-D, 00193 Rome, Italy

Telephone: +39-06-6830-7316

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/holy_see-saint-siege/holy_see-saint-seige.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
  • 118 to connect to Ambulance.
  • 113 to connect to the police

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