Travel Vaccines and Advice for Georgia
Georgia is a relatively small country in the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe.
Georgia borders the Black Sea and four countries: Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia. Its region has seen some turmoil in recent years. Border skirmishes, especially with Russia, have occurred. But, Georgia is still a wonderful country with much to offer visitors.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Georgia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Georgia
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Georgia?
What Is the Climate Like in Georgia?
How Safe Is Georgia?
Visit Abanotubani
What Should I Take to Georgia?
Canadian Embassy in Georgia
Do I Need Vaccines for Georgia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Georgia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Georgia: 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 –
Proof of polio vaccination may be required. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - 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 Georgia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Proof of polio vaccination may be required. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
| 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 Georgia |
||
| 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 – The hepatitis A virus is highly contagious, primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact. To prevent infection, practice good hygiene and get vaccinated.
- Rabies – Rabies, a fatal viral illness, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Prevention centers on vaccination, with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) necessary after possible exposure and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) recommended for individuals with increased risk, such as travellers.
- 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 highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Georgia
Prevent Bug Bites in Georgia
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 Georgia
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options.
Altitude Sickness in Georgia
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), arises at high elevations due to decreased oxygen levels. To prevent AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms like headaches or fatigue develop, descend to lower altitudes for rest and recovery, seeking medical help if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Georgia
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is transmitted by ticks and can also spread from person to person through contact with infected bodily fluids. Preventative measures include tick bite prevention, healthcare worker precautions, and research towards a potential vaccine.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis spreads via sand fly bites but can also be transmitted through other means. Prevention includes using insect repellents, covering up, and staying indoors during sand fly activity.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Georgia?
A tourist or business visa is not required for stays up to 365 days. A passport with at least 6 months validity is required. A visa must be obtained prior to entering the country. If you plan on travelling to the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, you must first obtain authorization from Georgian authorities.
Georgia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Georgia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Georgia 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 Georgia?
Georgia has a warm, temperate climate with some geographic variation. This is caused by the Greater Caucasus Mountains shielding the country from cold northern air. The Lesser Caucasus range protects the country from the hot, dry southern air.
Georgia sees summer temperatures around 20. Winters in east Georgia are a bit colder, usually around 5.
When travelling to Georgia, you can expect the most rain during the spring months. But, you can expect more rain the closer you are the coast. Georgia has the best travel weather during May, June and September.
How Safe Is Georgia?
Georgia has two regions, known as Abkhazia and South Ossetia, that are occupied by Russia. Avoid travelling to these areas. Travel documents are required for this region.
Outside these regions, Georgia is generally safe. Petty crime is not uncommon and armed theft does occur. Assume any and all assailants you encounter can very well be armed and dangerous. Reduce this risk by maintaining a low profile and by not carrying a large amount of cash. Avoid travelling alone or at night.
Credit card skimming and identity theft can occur. It’s common for ATMs to be tampered with and publicly-available internet terminals to be compromised. Counterfeit money crimes are also known to occur in Georgia.
Visit Abanotubani
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Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, wasn’t always filled with modern architecture. In fact, it wasn’t even always in the location that it is today. The Old Town of Tbilisi, now known as “Abanotubani”, is home to 11th century buildings, rich with history.
Tourists are attracted to this area because of the natural sulfur baths that can be found here. A legend surrounding the baths states that a king found the springs when his falcon landed there.
Earlier settlers built “beehive-like domes” around the sulfur baths to trap in heat. It’s believed the baths provide many benefits from the sulfur. Travellers will venture many kilometres for this relaxing experience.
What Should I Take to Georgia?
If you’re planning a trip to Georgia, here are some important things to pack. Georgia can be very hot in the summer and cold in the winter, so make sure to pack clothes that match the season. Bring comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Protect yourself from the sun and bugs by packing sunscreen and insect repellent.
If you’re coming from a different country, you might need a travel adapter for your electronics. Remember to bring any necessary medications and medical supplies. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to bring some cash too. A guidebook or map can help you navigate new places. Don’t forget your camera to capture memories.
Bring personal hygiene items like a toothbrush and toothpaste. It’s also important to have travel insurance in case of unexpected events like lost luggage or medical emergencies.
Canadian Embassy in Georgia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Georgia, the information for the Canadian consulate is:
Canadian Honorary Consulate in Tbilisi, Georgia
Third Floor, 34 Rusatveli Avenue
Tbilisi 0108
Georgia
Telephone: (+995) 32 218-2072
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Georgia
“I met with our nurse and she had lots of great travel advice for Georgia and was very knowledgeable and straightforward with her vaccination advice. I am also a wimp when it comes to needles, and she took her time and calmed me right down. Definitely recommend Passport Health!”
“Staff was very pleasant, knowledgeable and on-time. I feel very prepared to travel to Georgia.”
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