Travel Vaccines and Advice for Uruguay
Uruguay is in South America, bordering Argentina, Brazil, the Río de la Plata, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Visitors will be able experience amazing nightlife in Punta del Este or gorgeous shops in Montevideo. Even in these cosmopolitan areas, travellers will still experience cow-and-gaucho traffic jams. Or, walk along the beach alongside locals drinking maté. Travellers are also able to watch wildlife or visit hot springs giving those who love the outdoors plenty to experience.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Uruguay?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Uruguay
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Uruguay
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Uruguay?
What Is the Climate Like in Uruguay?
How Safe Is Uruguay?
Visiting Punta del Este
What Should I Take to Uruguay?
Canadian Embassy in Uruguay
Do I Need Vaccines for Uruguay?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Uruguay. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Uruguay: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, 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. - 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - 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 Uruguay |
||
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| 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 Uruguay |
||
| 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 – Typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, typically spread through contaminated food or water, leading to fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The typhoid vaccine provides immunity against this bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of contracting the disease, especially in areas where typhoid is common.
- 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.
- 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 – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection 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.
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 Uruguay
Prevent Bug Bites in Uruguay
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 Uruguay
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.
Infections To Be Aware of in Uruguay
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by kissing bugs, requires prevention through insecticide control and avoiding the kissing bug.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Uruguay
- Western Equine Encephalitis – Both Argentina and Uruguay have reported cases of this disease in the last few months. WEEV is mostly spread through mosquitoes and can have severe symptoms. Travellers are advised to take measure to avoid mosquito bites and be on the look out for symptoms. These include headache, fever, neck stiffness and sensitivity to light.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Uruguay?
A passport which is valid for the duration of the stay is required to enter the country. A visa is not required for business and tourism purposes for up to 90 days. A departure tax of USD$25 is required to be paid but is generally included in the price of your airline ticket.
Uruguay Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Uruguay? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Uruguay 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 Uruguay?
Uruguay is a country in South America that has many popular tourist destinations. The weather in these places is usually mild and pleasant all year round.
Punta del Este is a coastal town known for its beaches and nightlife. The weather there is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees. In the summer, it can be humid and sticky.
Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay. It has a humid subtropical climate that is mild all year round. Temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. In the spring, it can be windy.
Colonia del Sacramento is a historic colonial town on the Rio de la Plata. It has a temperate climate ranging from 10 to 25 degrees. The weather can be changeable with frequent showers and cool breezes.
Uruguay has a nice climate that is perfect for tourists looking to escape cooler weather elsewhere. Before travelling to any destination, it’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast to be prepared.
How Safe Is Uruguay?
Uruguay is a safe country to travel to, but travellers should still be cautious to ensure their safety.
To stay safe, it’s important to be alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to get around and keep your valuables in a secure location.
Be cautious of anyone who approaches you on the street offering unsolicited help or asking for money. Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Keep up-to-date on local news and events, especially if you’re travelling during a time of political or social unrest.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Uruguay.
Visiting Punta del Este
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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Punta del Este is a cool place in Uruguay where tourists like to go. There are many reasons why people visit Punta del Este. One reason is the beaches. There are a lot of pretty beaches where people can swim, surf, and play water sports.
Another reason to go is to stay at a fancy resort. These resorts have lots of fun things to do like spas, golf, and nice restaurants. At night, people can go out and have fun at the bars, nightclubs, and casinos. There are also many art galleries, museums, and cultural centers to visit. People can see cool art and learn about the culture of Uruguay.
Punta del Este has a lot of good food too. People can try local and international food, and drink wine from nearby vineyards. There are also many places to shop for souvenirs and clothes.
Punta del Este is a great place for tourists who want to have fun, relax, learn new things, and experience luxury.
What Should I Take to Uruguay?
Uruguay is a country with a mild climate, it’s good to pack light clothes like t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. You’ll likely be walking around a lot, be sure to bring comfortable shoes.
The sun can be strong, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Insects can be annoying, so pack insect repellent. You may need a power adapter for your electronics. Bring enough of any medications you need, and basic over-the-counter medicines like pain relievers and stomach remedies.
Bring your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and other important documents. You should bring some cash and credit cards. Uruguay can have sudden rain, so pack a waterproof jacket.
Don’t forget your swimsuit if you plan on going to the beach!
Canadian Embassy to Uruguay
When travelling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
Canadian Embassy in Uruguay
Plaza Independencia 749,
Oficina 102, 11100,
Montevideo, Uruguay
Phone: (598) 2902-2030
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