Travel Vaccines and Advice for Russia
Russia offers diverse terrains, rich, well-preserved history and an extraordinary uniqueness. It is, without a doubt, one of the most remarkable in the world.
The country’s size and contrasting climates have helped brand it as a ‘traveller’s dream’. Russia has accommodations and adventures fit for everyone and anyone.
Whether you’re an architecture fan looking to stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or a traditional explorer hopping a train to Siberia, Russia has some of the world’s best food, people and the most magnificent views.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Russia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Russia
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Russia?
What Is the Climate Like in Russia?
How Safe Is Russia?
Dargavs Village: City of the Dead
What Should I Take to Russia?
Canadian Embassy in Russia
Do I Need Vaccines for Russia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Russia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Russia: hepatitis A, polio, Japanese encephalitis, 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. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Cases reported in Far Eastern maritime areas south of Khabarovsk, usually July to September. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - 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 Russia |
||
| 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. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Cases reported in Far Eastern maritime areas south of Khabarovsk, usually July to September. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Russia |
||
| 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 highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-spread viral disease that affects the central nervous system. Prevention is achieved through protective attire and vaccination.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread via infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and vaccination. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, offering strong and enduring immunity against the virus.
- 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.
Mosquito-borne diseases are less common in Russia than many other countries. This is due, at least in part, to the climate of many of the region. But, Japanese encephalitis is still a threat in some areas. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn if you’ll need this vaccine.
Tuberculosis is a large burden on Russia’s population. While risk to travellers is low, consider a two-step skin test or tuberculosis blood test after your trip if you believe you may have been exposed.
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 Russia
Prevent Bug Bites in Russia
Safeguard against bug bites by following PHAC-recommended practices like donning long attire and using EPA-registered repellents like DEET or picaridin. Be mindful of bug activity times and bolster your sleeping space with nets and screens. In the event of bug bites, clean the area, resist itching, and use over-the-counter treatments to help with itching. Be sure to seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Russia
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 Russia
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is caused by insufficient oxygen at high elevations. Symptoms include headaches and nausea. To avoid AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If AMS strikes, descend to lower altitudes promptly, rest, and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Infections To Be Aware of in Russia
- Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, a contagious virus affecting birds and humans, can be prevented through poultry vaccination, enhanced biosecurity on farms, proper poultry handling and cooking, vigilant outbreak surveillance, and public education on the virus and its transmission.
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick-borne viruses, necessitates protection against tick bites and strict infection control in healthcare.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Russia?
All Canadian citizens require either a business Telex, standard business/ work, or tourism visa to enter Russia. If you have dual citizenship, you still must travel to Russia with Russian documents regardless of other citizenship. Single entry telex visas can be received in 6 business days while all other visas can take anywhere from 6 – 14 business days.
Russia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Russia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Russia and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Russian immigration policy can be difficult to navigate and violations could lead to expulsion from the country. Let Passport Health help you travel worry-free with our expert Passport and Visa Services.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Russia?
Russia offers some of the most diverse landscapes and climate conditions of any country in the world. This, in part, is because of the country’s size. Research temperatures and conditions based where you will be going.
- Moscow – The capital city has cold winters and mild summers. From June through August, temperature are usually around 20. From November through February, they can drop to the low-teens and at times even sub-zero.
- St. Petersburg – July is the hottest month in St. Petersburg with highs around 15. January is the coldest month, with temperatures falling below freezing for the high.
- Siberia – One of the more popular destinations in Russia, Siberia offers a wide range of climates. The province hosts famously cold winters and warm, tropical summers. The first snow typically falls in early October. Rains are common throughout spring and early summer.
The most mild temperatures are along the Baltic Coast. The most varied temperatures occur in the Northern and Central regions of Russia.
How Safe Is Russia?
According the Canadian government, terrorism remains a very real threat in Russia and throughout most of Europe. It is important to exercise caution throughout the country.
Political unrest is still a raging issue throughout many parts of Russia. Incidents have been reported of Canadian travellers being kidnapped for ransom. Travellers must exercise caution while visiting the country.
Avoid travel to hot spots like Chechnya and the Chrimea as active hostilities are still ongoing and risks are high.
Popular tourist destinations like St. Petersburg and Moscow are safer to visit. But, petty and other crime is common. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid wearing anything that could make you a target.
Russia’s political climate is less open than many Western nations. Be careful what you say and where you say it to avoid confrontation.
Dargavs Village: City of the Dead
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Dargavs is located in the republic of North Ossetia in southern Russia. It lies in the middle of a mountain valley which stretches over 15 kilometres.
Hidden in the Caucasus mountains, the city is actually an ancient necropolis. Former residents buried their loved ones in this site.
Though the exact reason residents buried their family beneath the site remains unknown. The cryptic city continues to inspire myths and legends to this day.
The mysterious, abandoned area has been a muse for some of the world’s greatest poets and storytellers.
This region of southern Russia has been the site of some violent clashes in recent years. Take extra precautions if visiting this site.
What Should I Take to Russia?
As a leading global economy, Russia has many of the comforts travellers expect. But, there are still a few key items to make sure are in your bag.
- Money Belt – If you’re planning on visiting popular tourist attractions in places like Moscow or St. Petersburg, have a secure way to carry your money. These areas are typically crowded and pick-pocketing is a common occurrence. Be prepared and aware of your surroundings.
- Power Converter – Russia does not use the same power connectors or voltage as North America. Bring a converter if you’re planning on using any non-European electronics.
- Copy of Passport and Visa – It is best to carry a copy of both of these items with you at all times within Russia to avoid any issues with officials. While rare, situations have been known to occur.
- Sim Card – Travellers should consider purchasing a local sim card. The phone chip is useful should you make any international calls and will help to keep roaming charges down. Not all phones can accept these chips. Purchasing a local phone is a sometimes inexpensive option.
Canadian Embassy in Russia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Russia, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Canadian Embassy in Moscow
Smolenskaya Naberezhnaya 10,
Moscow 121099, Russia
(near the Stary Arbat street, Metro: Kropotkinskaya)
Tel.: + 7 (495) 925-6000
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
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