Travel Vaccines and Advice for Italy
Of all the places to go in Europe, Italy is first on the list for many people. Italy’s charm is found in its ancient wonders, cuisine and unique landscapes.
The Coliseum, Florentine markets and volcanic ruins, there is no shortage of history waiting to be explored.
Travel can be done a multitude of ways including local flight options, by ferry for coastal towns and to islands or by train or bus. Some of the hidden treasures of Italy need extra planning. But, they are well worth the time.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Italy?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Italy
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Italy?
What Is the Climate Like in Italy?
How Safe Is Italy?
Is the Food Safe in Italy?
See the Amazing Cinque Terre
What Should I Take to Italy?
Canadian Embassy in Italy
Do I Need Vaccines for Italy?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Italy. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Italy: 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 Italy |
||
| 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 Italy |
||
| 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 – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travellers.
- 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 contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
As a developed country, Italy does not have many communicable diseases. Make sure you are up-to-date on your routine vaccinations before travelling.
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 Italy
Prevent Bug Bites in Italy
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 Italy
While dining abroad, prioritize food safety by avoiding street food, practicing hand hygiene, and selecting fully cooked dishes. Opt for sealed bottled or canned drinks. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by adhering to hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Altitude Sickness in Italy
Altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headache and nausea stemming from oxygen deprivation at high elevations, can be prevented through gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. Should AMS symptoms arise, immediate descent to lower altitudes, rest and seek medical attention.
Infections To Be Aware of in Italy
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Italy?
Most nationals will need a visa but Canadian citizens using a valid passport do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Non-Canadians residing in Canada must apply in person at the Italian Embassy or Consulate for the Schengen zone visa. All applicants will be fingerprinted, interviewed, and biometrically scanned.
Italy Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Italy? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Italy and Canadian Travel and Tourism
If you plan to stay for 90 days or more, a visa will be required. You must get this visa before starting your trip.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Italy?
The climate in Italy differs depending on location.
Winters can be brutal in northern areas near the Alps. Summers can be hot in this region as well. Central Italy remains somewhat constant with mild temperatures throughout the year. In southern Italy, temperatures are warm in winter and even warmer in the summer. Regardless of where in Italy, the climate is described as Mediterranean.
- Milan – Nestled in the northern Italy, Milan is bordered by the Alps. Winters are milder than other northern cities, but summers can be hot. The variety in temperature is typical in Northern cities.
- Rome – Sitting in central Italy, Rome experiences a range of seasons. Most of Rome’s rainfall occurs in the winter. Most other areas in Italy that receive the bulk of the rain in the spring and summer.
- Naples – Is one of the largest and most-traveled cities in Southern Italy. Even in the winter months, temperatures will remain mostly above 10 degrees Celsius. In the summer months, Naples will catch cool breezes off the ocean.
How Safe Is Italy?
Italy is a beautiful place to visit, but it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you:
- Learn about the places you’ll go, including customs and safety tips.
- Keep your things safe from thieves by using special bags or pouches. Be careful in crowded places.
- Travel with friends or a group, and don’t walk alone at night in dark or empty areas.
- Use safe public transportation, and keep your luggage close on trains.
- Be careful when using ATMs, and don’t let anyone help you.
- Don’t show off expensive items like jewelry or watches.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for scams or distractions.
- Follow local rules and customs to avoid getting in trouble.
- Have emergency contact numbers and tell your family or friends about your travel plans.
- Get travel insurance to protect you in case something goes wrong.
By following these tips, you can have a fun and safe trip to Italy.
Is the Food Safe in Italy?
Italy is notorious for producing some of the most delectable cuisine in the world. Italian culture is centered around meal time. Most devote a lot of time and energy into the preparation and cooking of every meal. With the culinary bar set so high, it is rare that travellers will sit down to a meal is deemed unsafe for consumption. The only thing to remain wary towards is water. Most restaurants will serve water and sodas in the bottle to guarantee high and consistent quality.
See the Amazing Cinque Terre
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Cinque Terre is a beautiful coastal region in Italy that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its name refers to the five colorful fishing villages nestled along the Mediterranean coastline. The villages are connected by hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the sea and the terraced vineyards on the hillsides.
Visitors can spend their days hiking the trails and evenings enjoying delicious seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Other popular activities include boat tours, wine tasting and shopping for local handicrafts. Tourists in Cinque Terre will be captivated by its beauty and charm.
What Should I Take to Italy?
Considering where and when you plan on travelling to Italy and for how long, there are a variety of items that should make it into your suitcase:
- Comfortable walking shoes with arch support
- A shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders. There are many churches and religious areas that require modest clothing before entry
- A purse with a latch of some kind. Theft from purses has been known to happen in large crowded cities
- Light and airy clothing for the humid summer months
- An umbrella or rain proof jacket for the occasional rainstorm
- A hat as the sun can be harsh
- If fine-dining is in your plans, pack “black-tie” attire as some restaurants have dress codes
Canadian Embassy in Italy
The Consular section Via Salaria is able to provide political, academic, trade, and cultural services. The consular section Via Zara provides immigration, visa, and Canadian consular services. The Embassy of Canada in Rome provides services for those travelling to Italy, Albania, Malta, and San Marino.
Canadian Embassy in Rome, Italy
Via Zara 30
Rome 00198
Italy
Telephone: +39 06-85444-1
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Italy
“I have not travelled out of the country before, but the travel nurse made sure to tell me about what I needed, specific instructions for taking pills and getting vaccines, and what was recommended for travel to Italy.”
“I was seen right on time, the nurse was so knowledgeable, and I left feeling so well prepared for my upcoming trip to Italy! It was an incredibly positive and seamless experience.”
“Very knowledgeable and friendly. Lots of great information was provided for travel to Italy. I would highly recommend this clinic.”
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