Travel Vaccines and Advice for Croatia
Croatia is a country with a rich history and culture. The country has become a popular tourist destination due to its captivating coasts and ancient cities.
The capital city of Croatia is Zagreb and is also, by far, the largest city in the country. Other larger cities include Split and Rijeka.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Croatia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Croatia
Do I Need a Visa for Croatia?
What Is the Climate Like in Croatia?
How Safe Is Croatia?
History and Culture in Dubrovnik
What Should I Take to Croatia?
Canadian Embassy in Croatia
Do I Need Vaccines for Croatia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Croatia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Croatia: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Croatia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Croatia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus, often spread through contaminated food or water, or via direct contact with someone infected. It leads to liver inflammation, potentially impairing its function, and manifests as symptoms like tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. The vaccine for hepatitis A offers robust protection against this virus. It is typically given in two doses over a six-month period and is advised for those travelling to regions with higher risk or for people more likely to come into contact with the virus.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Croatia
Prevent Bug Bites in Croatia
To fend off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: cover up with long clothing, use repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and avoid bug-heavy areas during dawn and dusk. Protect your sleep with insect-repellent-treated bed nets.
Food and Water Safety in Croatia
When abroad, ensure food safety by avoiding street vendors, practicing hand hygiene, and opting for thoroughly cooked dishes. Choose bottled or canned drinks with intact seals. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at trustworthy restaurants.
Infections To Be Aware of in Croatia
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is a tick-borne disease that can be transmitted between humans through bodily fluids. Preventive strategies comprise tick avoidance, healthcare worker safety measures, and research efforts towards a vaccine to halt its transmission.
- Leishmaniasis – Sand fly bites are the main mode of leishmaniasis transmission, but it can spread through other means. Prevention measures include using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and minimizing outdoor activities during times when sand fly are most active.
Do I Need a Visa for Croatia?
A passport which is valid for 3 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. Croatia is part of the EU but is not a Schengen area territory. A passport is required for transit between Croatia and other European countries. A visa is not required for all business and tourism purposes for up to 90 days.
Croatia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Croatia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Croatia and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Croatia?
Croatia is a popular tourist destination with varying weather depending on the season.
The most popular tourist destinations in Croatia, such as Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Zadar, have a hot and dry summer climate. They also have a mild winter with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees in the summer and 5 to 15 in the winter.
Plitvice Lakes National Park has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Temperatures range between 20 to 25 degrees in the summer and -5 to 5 in the winter. Croatia can experience occasional heatwaves and rainfall throughout the year. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before visiting.
How Safe Is Croatia?
When travelling in Croatia, it’s important to stay safe by being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings safe.
Only use licensed taxis or public transportation services and be cautious when interacting with strangers.
It’s also important to be mindful of local laws and customs, and to stay informed about current events and travel advisories.
Croatia is a safe destination for travellers, but taking these precautions can help ensure your safety.
History and Culture in Dubrovnik
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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Dubrovnik is a city in Croatia that many people visit because it has a lot of interesting things to see and do. People come to see the old city walls, narrow streets, and beautiful buildings in the Old Town area.
There are also many museums, art galleries, and cultural events to enjoy. If you like going to the beach, Dubrovnik has some very pretty ones like Banje Beach and Sveti Jakov Beach. You can also do outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or taking a boat tour to see the nearby islands.
For fans of the TV show Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik has some famous filming locations that you can visit on a walking tour.
Dubrovnik is a pretty and historic city with lots of things to do. You can learn about history and culture, go to the beach, and do outdoor activities.
What Should I Take to Croatia?
When packing for a trip to Croatia, you should consider the weather, activities, and length of your stay.
In the summer, wear lightweight and breathable clothing. In the cooler months, pack warmer layers. It’s important to protect yourself from the strong sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Don’t forget your travel documents, money, and cards, as well as any necessary medications. Bring a refillable water bottle, backpack, and travel guide or map.
When packing, try to keep it light and leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs.
Croatia is a beautiful country with lots to explore, so with some preparation, you can have a wonderful trip.
Canadian Embassy in Croatia
The Canadian embassy in Croatia also provides services to those travelling to Kosovo.
Embassy of Canada in Croatia
Prilaz Gjure Dezelica 4
10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Tel.: 385 (1) 488-1200 / 385 (1) 488-1238
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Croatia
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