Stay healthy in Finland with these medical tips about required vaccinations for Finland travelers, medical treatment in Finland, how to get emergency assistance locally, and more...
1. Vaccinations for Finland Travelers
There are no required vaccinations for
Finland, but the CDC (Center for Disease Control) highly recommends to international travelers to be current on routine vaccinations such as measles and tetanus, and to get a shot of Hepatitis B vaccine 6 weeks before traveling abroad. Due to the cold
weather in Finland in the winter months, a flu shot won't hurt either.
2. Common Insect Bites in Finland
Especially in forested areas in Finland, travelers can get bitten by a tick. Tick bites may transfer encephalitis, so if you're heading into the woods in
Finland, wear boots, long sleeves and long pants tucked into your footwear. All travelers should use insect repellents containing 25-50% DEET, which are widely available in local Finnish stores. For tick bites, obtain treatment from local physicians or medical centers in all larger cities.
3. The Swine Flu in Finland
None of the suspected cases of Swine Flu in Finland turned out to be confirmed Swine Flu cases. There is no viable health risk to travelers regarding the Swine Flu in Finland at this point but travel to the U.S. and Mexico is discouraged. Treatment for the Swine Flu in Finland is free of charge to all residents.If you're coming from within the
European Economic Area (EEA), Finland's customs regulation let you bring personal prescription medicines (up to a one year supply) without a customs declaration. Travelers coming from outside the EEA may bring a 90-day supply of personal prescription drugs to Finland. A formal doctor’s note may be requested by customs officials when you arrive. Some strong narcotics have further restrictions.
It's important to have medical coverage, especially while traveling. We can recommend two very reputable companies: AIG Travel Guard and
STA.com. Both companies offer free, low-priced quotes with international medical coverage, emergency assistance, last-minute or emergency travel and flight changes, short- and long-term medical insurance plans, and even lost luggage coverage.
6. Medical Emergencies in Finland
If you find yourself in need of emergency assistance in Finland, call 112 nationwide to reach the fire department and ambulance services. The direct emergency phone number of the police is 10022. There will be English-speaking staff members available to help you.7. Food & Water Safety in Finland
Drinking water is safe for immediate consumption in
Finland, and there is no health risk associated with local foods. However, no matter where you travel, you should always wash fresh fruits and/or vegetables before consumption.
8. About the Avian Flu / Bird Flu in Finland
The situation around the H5N1 virus (avian flu) in Finland has gone back to normal. The virus has not posed a direct health threat to travelers for several years now.
