Canada warns its travelers: five European destinations to avoid

IN BRIEF

Travel alert issued by Canada for five countries in Europe.
Concerned destinations: United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Poland, Finland.
Health risk related to poliomyelitis (polio), a contagious viral disease.
Proof of vaccination against polio is recommended, especially for prolonged stays.
Check the validity of your international vaccination certificate before departure.
Regularly consult official updates to avoid any travel complications.

In its latest update, the Government of Canada warns travelers about five key destinations in Europe following the detection of circulating poliovirus. This warning, based on the recommendations from the World Health Organization, calls for vigilance and increased health preparedness before traveling to these countries. Travelers are now advised to check their vaccination status against polio and anticipate potential exit requirements from the visited territory.

Enhanced health alert for Europe

Canadian travelers planning a stay in Europe in the coming months should take note of the recent guidelines issued by federal authorities. The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs has indeed raised the alert level to health, placing five countries on the continent under surveillance for the presence of poliovirus. This level 2 warning is based on the persistence of active strains of poliomyelitis, recently detected in several countries popular with international tourists.

Which countries are affected by the alert?

The list now includes five major European destinations: Germany, Spain, Finland, Poland, and United Kingdom. These countries, known for their tourist appeal and cultural dynamism, are facing the circulation of vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) type 2. The detection of these strains has led to a reassessment of the health risk for travelers, prompting Canadian authorities to recommend the utmost caution, particularly during stays longer than four weeks.

Understanding the risk related to poliomyelitis

Poliomyelitis remains a contagious viral disease, primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food. Although most infections are asymptomatic, some cases can lead to fever, headaches or sore throat, fatigue, digestive issues, and, more rarely, severe neurological complications that can result in irreversible paralysis. The WHO still considers the international spread of poliovirus a global public health emergency.

Verification and updating of vaccination, an essential step

In Canada, vaccination against polio is included in the basic childhood vaccination schedule. However, an extended stay in one of the listed countries may require a booster vaccination in adulthood. Travelers are strongly advised to consult a travel health clinic before their departure, ideally six weeks in advance, to receive the vaccine if needed and obtain an official certificate. The international certificate of vaccination or prophylaxis is often required and recognized worldwide as proof of health compliance when exiting the visited country.

Procedures and practical advice for travelers

As part of the current alert, travelers are advised to:

Verify the validity and updating of their vaccination against polio.
Visit a travel health clinic for personalized recommendations.
Ensure that any recent vaccinations are documented on the required international certificate.

It is also essential to regularly consult the official websites of the Government of Canada as well as the WHO to keep up with the evolution of recommendations and procedures. New restrictions may emerge based on the local or international health context.