Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Public Health Agency of Canada
(
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca
)
General resources:
MD Travel Health
(
www.mdtravelhealth.com
)
World Health Organization
(
www.who.int
)
Government travel health websites:
Australia
(
www.smarttraveller.gov.au
)
United Kingdom
(
www.nhs.uk/healthcareabroad
)
United States
(
www.cdc.gov/travel/
)
In Canada
AVAILABILITY & COST OF HEALTH CARE
Medical services are widely available. For emergencies, the best bet is to find the nearest
hospital and go to its emergency room. If the problem isn't urgent, call a nearby hospital
and ask for a referral to a local physician, which is usually cheaper than a trip to the emer-
gency room (where costs can be $500 or so before any treatment).
Pharmacies are abundant, but prescriptions can be expensive without insurance.
However, Americans may find Canadian prescription drugs to be cheaper than drugs at
home. You're allowed to take out a 90-day supply for personal use (though know it's tech-
nically illegal to bring them into the USA, but overlooked for individuals ).
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Most are acquired by mosquito or tick bites, or environmental exposure. The
Public
Health Agency of Canada
(
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca
) has details on all listed below.
Giardiasis
Intestinal infection. Avoid drinking directly from lakes, ponds, streams and
rivers.
Lyme Disease
Occurs mostly in southern Canada. Transmitted by deer ticks in late
spring and summer. Perform a tick check after you've been outdoors.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
At the time of writing, SARS has been
brought under control in Canada.
West Nile Virus
Mosquito-transmitted in late summer and early fall. Prevent by keeping
covered (wear long sleeves, long pants, hats, and shoes rather than sandals) and apply a
good insect repellent, preferably one containing DEET, to exposed skin and clothing.
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
Cold exposure
This can be a significant problem, especially in the northern regions.
Keep all body surfaces covered, including the head and neck. Watch out for the 'Umbles'
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