Travel Vaccines and Advice for Lebanon
From strong traditions to stunning landscapes, Lebanon promises visitors a chance to partake in unique experiences.
Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, provides a plethora of possibilities to tourists. There are many museums scattered across the city that offer visitors a glimpse into culture and history. Beirut is also home to many natural landscapes and sights, such as the René Moawad Garden.
Byblos is another area to stop by if one if looking to make the most out of their time in Lebanon. Byblos is also packed with opportunities for entertainment. This includes nearby Mzaar Kfardebian ski resort and a local wax museums. There are also various forts or castles to visit, such as the towering Byblos Castle.
Lebanon is a vacation destination abundant with history, nature and entertainment.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Lebanon?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Lebanon
Do I Need a Visa for Lebanon?
What Is the Climate Like in Lebanon?
How Safe Is Lebanon?
Vacationing Among Violence in Lebanon
What Should I Pack for Lebanon?
Canadian Embassy in Lebanon
Do I Need Vaccines for Lebanon?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Lebanon. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Lebanon: typhoid, cholera, 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. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travel to most regions. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Required if arriving from a country with active polio transmission. 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 Lebanon |
||
| 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. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Recommended for travel to most regions. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Required if arriving from a country with active polio transmission. 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 Lebanon |
||
| 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
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a potentially life-threatening illness spread through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is a critical preventive measure, especially for travellers heading to endemic regions or individuals with an increased risk of exposure.
- Cholera – Cholera is a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, primarily spread through contaminated water. It and causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. The cholera vaccine provides long-term protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the PHAC.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting mammals, including humans, primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is key to preventing rabies, with pre-exposure shots effectively preventing infection.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travellers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that can lead to severe health issues. They are transmitted through respiratory droplets and close contact. The MMR vaccine, a safe and effective immunization, is recommended by the PHAC as the best way to prevent these diseases.
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 Lebanon
Prevent Bug Bites in Lebanon
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 Lebanon
Safeguard your health while abroad by consuming cooked and hot foods, opting for bottled or sealed drinks, and practicing proper hand-washing. Limit your exposure to risky local dishes. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain these precautions: eat carefully prepared foods, avoid untreated water, sanitize your hands, consider probiotics, and exercise caution with unfamiliar cuisine.
Altitude Sickness in Lebanon
Altitude sickness, marked by symptoms such as headaches and fatigue due to low oxygen levels at high elevations. AMS can be avoided through gradual ascent, hydration, and certain medications like acetazolamide. If AMS strikes, descending promptly to lower altitudes, resting, and seeking medical assistance if symptoms persist are crucial steps for recovery.
Infections To Be Aware of in Lebanon
- Leishmaniasis – The transmission of leishmaniasis primarily occurs through infected sand fly bites, with other routes of transmission possible. Preventing the disease involves minimizing exposure to sand flies. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
- MERS – MERS, caused by MERS-CoV, was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Preventing MERS involves practicing good hygiene, staying away from infected individuals and camels, and following PHAC travel guidelines. It’s worth noting that there is no vaccine available to protect against MERS at present.
Do I Need a Visa for Lebanon?
A passport which is valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of departure. A visa is required for all visits to Lebanon. You should obtain a visa prior to arrival to avoid any delays or complications. An entry stamp is also required to exit the country.
Lebanon Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Lebanon? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Lebanon 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 Lebanon?
Lebanon has different types of weather in different parts of the country. Beirut, the capital, has a hot and dry summer with cool and wet winters. Byblos, a coastal city, has similar weather but a bit cooler because of the sea. Baalbek, a city in the Beqaa Valley, has hot summers and cold winters. In the mountainous areas, like Bcharre and Faraya, it is usually colder, and there is snow in the winter. In the summer, it’s cooler than the coast.
It’s important to remember that the weather can change, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before planning any outdoor activities.
How Safe Is Lebanon?
To stay safe in Lebanon, travellers should do some research about the current security situation and avoid high-risk areas. They should be alert and cautious of any suspicious activities or behavior, and use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services to avoid safety risks.
It’s also important to respect local customs and laws and have a plan in place in case of an emergency. To get help in case of an emergency, travellers should register with their embassy or consulate before travelling to Lebanon.
Remember to stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, keep a low profile, and have a contingency plan. By taking these steps, travellers can reduce the risks and enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Lebanon.
Vacationing Among Violence in Lebanon
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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Lebanon has a rich, varied culture, beautiful sights and promises a one-of-a-kind experience. But, some terrorist organizations actively operate within Lebanon. Anti-western sentiments have also spread across the region.
If you still choose to visit Lebanon, you should avoid the more turbulent and tense areas of the country. Avoid the Lebanon-Syria border and the Lebanon-Israel border regions completely. Avoid visiting the Bekaa Valley, as there is a strong terrorist presence there. You should also stay away from refugee camps, as violence can occur in these camps.
What Should I Pack for Lebanon?
Consider these key items when packing for your trip to Lebanon:
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen – The sun can become unforgiving to those it burns in Lebanon. If you wish to prevent sunburn and skin damage, pack a sunscreen with at least SPF 50. Sunglasses will help you stay comfortable and protect your eyes. Make sure to pack a pair of sunglasses to wear while outside.
- Insect Repellent – Though the number of mosquitoes varies by region, these pests are present in Lebanon. Bringing an insect repellent will help keep mosquitoes and other bugs away. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will likely be the most effective.
- Modest Clothing – Some areas in Lebanon can be on the more conservative side. It is not common for women to show most of their legs or chest. Packing clothes that allow you to cover those areas is recommending. A headscarf will also be needed if you intend to visit any religious sites.
Canadian Embassy in Lebanon
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Lebanon, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Canadian Embassy Beirut
First Floor, 43 Jal El Dib Highway (seaside),
Beirut, Lebanon
Tel: 961 (4) 726-700
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Lebanon
“The nurse was knowledgeable about what we needed for Lebanon. She was very friendly and polite. She was amazing with my children age 2 and 5 months.”
“Terrific experience with my nurse this morning! Friendly, efficient and very knowledgeable. She took the time we needed to understand the risks in Lebanon and how to prevent the diseases and issues that are present.”
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