Travel Vaccines and Advice for Estonia
Estonia is a country in Northern Europe in the Baltic region. It is bordered by the Gulf of Finland, the Baltic Sea, Latvia, Lake Peipus, and Russia.
The country offers visitors a chance to see gorgeous beaches along the shoreline. There are gorgeous forests and countryside to explore. History buffs will enjoy visiting the medieval old town in Tallinn. They can explore city walls and in-tact towers. There are even traces of Soviet occupation of the country, such as the deserted Paldiski base.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Estonia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Estonia
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Estonia?
What Is the Climate Like in Estonia?
How Safe Is Estonia?
Visiting Laheema National Park
What Should I Take to Estonia?
Canadian Embassy in Estonia
Do I Need Vaccines for Estonia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Estonia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Estonia: 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:
- 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 –
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 Estonia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 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 Estonia |
||
| 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 a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine provides effective prevention against the virus. It is administered in a series of shots, usually starting in childhood, and is recommended for travel to areas with high infection rates.
- Rabies – Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection transmitted primarily through bites and scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the key to prevention, offering pre-exposure protection to high-risk individuals and post-exposure treatment for those exposed to rabies.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread through bodily fluids, poses a significant health risk. Safe practices help, but vaccination is the ultimate safeguard. It prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring strong and persistent protection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are preventable diseases that require a proactive approach through vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is a powerful tool in stopping the transmission of these viruses. Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks.
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 Estonia
Prevent Bug Bites in Estonia
When bitten by bugs, clean the area with soap and water, refrain from scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies. For severe reactions or tick bites, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Following PHAC guidelines can help prevent and manage bug bites effectively.
Food and Water Safety in Estonia
When travelling, ensure food safety by adhering to PHAC recommendations, which include eating fully cooked foods, avoiding raw seafood, and selecting reputable dining places. Safely drink bottled beverages, avoiding ice in uncertain water sources, and consume alcohol in moderation. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea through hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary areas.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Estonia?
A tourist visa is not required for up to 90 days, a business visa is not required either. A passport which is valid for at least 3 months from the expected date of departure I required to enter the country. For stays longer than 90 days, Estonian officials may ask you to show proof of sufficient health insurance.
Estonia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Estonia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Estonia 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 Estonia?
Estonia is a country with a cool and cold climate throughout the year. Tallinn and Tartu are two of the most popular cities for tourists, and they have similar weather patterns. In the summer, temperatures usually range from 15 to 20 degrees. In the winter, they are typically around freezing.
Pärnu is a coastal town with a milder climate. Summers there are a little warmer, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 20. Winters are a little milder, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees.
When planning a trip to Estonia, it’s important to check the weather forecast so you can pack the right clothes and plan activities accordingly. In the summer, you’ll need light clothes and sunscreen, while in the winter, you’ll need warm clothes and maybe even snow boots.
Remember that the weather can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for any type of weather.
How Safe Is Estonia?
Estonia does experience large, but peaceful, political demonstrations. Avoid these demonstrations if they occur.
Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, does occur. Travellers should avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them. Avoid large gatherings, as they are good opportunities for pick-pocketing.
Travel only in well-lit areas and avoid travelling alone if possible. Individuals are required to wear reflectors on their clothing during dark, winter months. All travellers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings while travelling.
Visiting Laheema National Park
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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Laheema National Park is in northern Estonia. It was the first national park of the Soviet Union, established in 1971. It is also one of Europe’s largest national parks. The park has tons of raised bogs, one, the Laukasoo Reserve, which is over 7,000 years old. On a walk around the park one might see boars, red deer, wolves, bears, foxes, beavers, moose, or lynxes.
There are also four manors on the park, Palmse, Vihula, Kolga and Sagadi. Palmse used to belong to the convent of St. Michael. On the grounds one can also find a distillery, greenhouse, bouth-house, and barn. Vihula has roots from 1501 and during the Soviet occupation served as a collective farm. There is even a coffee on the grounds! Kolaga is known as the “classiest” manor with it’s beautiful architecture. Sagdi manor has a rococo-style with 20 outbuildings and historical furnishings.
What Should I Take to Estonia?
A destination growing in popularity, a trip to Estonia still requires some prep work. Be sure to pack these key items.
- Walking Shoes – Bring comfortable shoes for hiking or other outdoor activities.
- Bug Spray – The spring time is often very wet, meaning mosquitoes and flies are abound. Make sure you stay protected.
- Gloves – Your extremities tend to get colder faster. Bring a pair of thick gloves if you plan on spending a lot of time outside in the cold.
- Jacket – Winters get incredibly cold in Estonia. A good, thick jacket is a necessity.
Canadian Embassy to Estonia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Estonia, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Canadian Embassy Office in Tallinn, Estonia
Toomkooli 13
15186 Tallinn
Estonia
Tel.: +372 627 3311 / +372 627-3310
Travellers should also look into enrolling in the Smart traveller Enrollment Program (STEP), a service offered by the Bureau of Consular Affairs. It is a free service that provides travellers with information from the Embassy about safety conditions in the country of travel. It also allows the Embassy or your family and friends to get in touch with you in the case of emergency.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Estonia
“The woman that helped me at the passport health clinic was extremely knowledgeable about Estonia and very professional, yet still personable with a sense of humour. It was a great experience.”
“We had a great experience with the nurse at Passport Health. She went over everything with us in detail so we felt comfortable with all the meds we needed to take before and during our trip to Estonia.”
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