Just before the calendar flipped to 2017, the world was gifted a breakthrough in virus-prevention.

Ebola virus, the worldwide outbreak from years ago, had a vaccine. And not just any vaccine, but one that was 100 percent effective in trial testing.

For many, Ebola may seem like old news.

The virus dominated the news cycle in 2014. An Ebola outbreak in western Africa spread to North America and Europe. The virus had spread throughout Africa for decades. But until 2014, had never made it’s way to the other continents. With every new case in the regions, Ebola-panic grew.

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Canada is in the midst of an unprecedented mumps outbreak in 2017, as the number of infected in some regions has already surpassed expected cases for the whole year.

Clusters of mumps cases have been reported throughout areas of Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia. The outbreak appears to be hitting Manitoba worse than any other region, with 176 confirmed cases of mumps in the territory since Sept. 1.

The disease has been making a steady comeback over the last few years. With occasional surges in various areas, doctors expected outbreaks to stop due to public awareness and vaccines. But, cases of the disease are continuing to rise in Canada.

There are an average of four mumps cases per year in Toronto. City officials have reported 17 new cases of the disease since January. All of those infected are between the ages of 18-35 and most don’t have updated vaccination records.

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When the world is short on a vaccine, there’s quite a few obstacles to overcome before solving that issue.

It’s not like a food shortage where you can grow more or a drought for blood banks that can campaign for more donors.

Very few companies in the world manufacture vaccines. Even if the process is cheap, companies may not produce the vaccine fast enough to combat an outbreak.

That nightmare scenario almost became a reality for Asia in 2016.

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It was a simple pneumonia diagnosis.

While pneumonia is a serious illness, and it’s difficult to call any sign of it simple, this case seemed routine.

The man was sneezing, coughing and wheezing. He showed all the signs that would come with a 68-year-old suffering from pneumonia. The symptoms presented like an extreme cold or other respiratory virus.

But, this 68-year-old man did not have pneumonia.

The man contracted Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). Unknowingly, he had started South Korea’s MERS outbreak of 2015.

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It happens every year during peak flu season.

Many of your coworkers, friends or family members are battling the contagious virus.

You feel fine, showing no symptoms of the virus despite spending time with people that are sneezing and feverish. But, even though you don’t show any signs of the flu, it’s naive to think you escaped the virus.

As is the case for many people, you may be infected with the flu and just not know it. There could be some mild symptoms or even none at all.

But, despite never actually dealing with the illness, you are still contagious. Day-to-day you are unaware that you’re a carrier and take no precautions to stop its spread.

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The Mayans may seem like ancient history, but the culture remains lively in Guatemala.

Between ancient temples and locals practicing centuries-old traditions, Maya thrives in Guatemala. A country and culture that have grown with modern times and technology without forgetting its past.

This may be why Guatemala is often considered one of Central America’s underrated locations.

Many islands in the area are covered in beaches, but visitors love Guatemala for its variety.

Stunning oceans lead to sprawling jungles. Those giant temples are scattered around volcanoes and mountains. The towns still immersed in Maya culture cover the country, welcoming curious travellers.

But, with so many different environments, Guatemala is not without some health risks. The country is not considered a disease hotbed. But, you will need some preparations to avoid falling ill from a trip.

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So you head to an exotic location. The sites are awe-inducing and the locals welcome you like an old friend.

But, you’ve really been waiting that whole trip to try some of the local food.

No more knockoffs or subpar versions that you might eat back home. The real, authentic food that earned this country a great reputation.

Delectable meats and homegrown produce mesh with foreign spices to create a whole new flavor for your palate. The whole trip may be worth it just for the extraordinary cuisine that you will brag to friends about upon your return.

Unfortunately, you aren’t feeling so great after the feast.

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History carries some weight in the Middle East.

Many became acquainted with the region thanks to ancient cities that were home to world famous stories. Places like Cairo, Jerusalem and Constantinople boast tales complemented by ancient wonders of the world.

Given, it’s not the past that makes the Middle East so alluring.

The United Arab Emirates is a modern marvel, full of towering buildings and art museums rivaling those found anywhere else. Tel Aviv brings Israel to life with a vivid nightlife that’s becoming a holiday hotspot. Istanbul, a renamed Constantinople, combines new world wonders with ancient landmarks.

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Ancient Buddhist temples decorate the mountains and forests of Thailand.

The country is rich in spirituality that stretches from the Gulf of Thailand to northern borders near Myanmar and Laos.

That is, unless you are looking for something a bit more laid back. Or even wild, because places like Phuket and Koh Samui bring a party atmosphere to the Asian country.

Thailand welcomes a variety of visitors, thanks to vast landscapes in the north and beaches filling the south.

Options during your Thailand trip can be amazing, but that also leaves more climates to get sick. Far different bacteria and viruses are present depending on where you visit in the Asian country.

Whether you check out the rural areas or chill by the ocean, some medical preparations are needed. Here’s the vaccines and tips to stay healthy during a trip to Thailand.

Which Vaccines Do I Need for Thailand?

The reliable method to avoid getting sick while travelling is with immunizations. The Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization recommend these vaccines for a trip to Thailand:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Typhoid
• Malaria
• Rabies
• Yellow Fever (if coming from a country with the virus)
• Routine Vaccinations

Looking for more information about each vaccine? Check out the individual pages or contact Passport Health. Schedule an appointment online or call us at .

Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Thailand

News about the worldwide Zika outbreak have been unavoidable over the past year. A vaccine for the virus is progressing quickly, but Zika continues to be a serious health risk.

Despite the Zika virus risks, this may not be Thailand’s most dangerous mosquito-borne disease.

Dengue fever spread to over 200,000 people in Thailand over the last two years, causing hundreds of deaths. Some hospitals in Thailand are using a new dengue vaccine. But, the disease is still circulating.

Mosquito nets and insect repellent sprays should be used whenever possible.

The forest areas of Thailand are not prevalent for mosquitoes compared to other countries. Despite this, extra precautions should still be taken when visiting forests throughout the country. Avoid perfumes or lotions that may attract insects and wear long sleeves and pants to keep most of your skin covered.

These should also help keep away from mosquitoes carrying other diseases. This includes Zika, Chikungunya fever, Filariasis, Malaria and other diseases.

Although there are vaccines for some mosquito-borne diseases, we still recommend precautions to avoid the insects.

Where Should I Go While Visiting Thailand?

While Bangkok may be Thailand’s most popular city, there is much to check out just outside of the capital.

You may have to set that alarm clock a bit early, but the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is worth the lack of sleep. Using a long boat, float to different vendors to pick up your fresh produce or homemade souvenirs. The place now fills with tourists. But, it provides a culture experience that solely belongs to Thailand.

Wherever you end up in Thailand, elephant enthusiasts can likely spend some time with the gentle giants.

From Chiang Mai in the northwest to Surin in the southeast, Thailand is not short on elephant sanctuaries. The parks adhere to strict rules that make the elephants feel safe, while allowing people to spend some quality time with the creatures.

Thailand’s rural areas should be a go-to spot for any person looking for a serene visit.

Chang Rai lays claim to the stunning White Temple, along with many other ancient Buddhist attractions. Sukhothai and Ayutthaya paint pictures of previous wealthy kingdoms with their giant ruins. And Lopburi boasts a history stretching back for millennia, although you may share space with native monkeys to look at those ruins.

Did we miss any must-see places in Thailand? How about some crucial medical information? Let us know in the comments, or via Facebook and Twitter.

There’s really no good reason to get bored while visiting Brazil.

The South American country is a hub for culture that also offers massive rainforests and almost unending beaches.

You can spend some time with the locals in busy Rio de Janeiro or have a relaxing getaway in Jericoacoara. Kayak along the Amazon or admire the beauty of Iguazu Falls.

The only downsides to all these attractions and climates is that they house various ways to catch a dangerous virus. Here’s a few tips to stay healthy during your trip to Brazil.

Which Vaccines Do I Need for Brazil?

Vaccination is the most reliable way to avoid disease when travelling. The Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization recommend these vaccines for a trip to Brazil:

• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Malaria
• Yellow Fever (if travelling from a country with the virus)
• Rabies
• Routine Vaccinations

For more information about each vaccine, check out the individual pages or contact Passport Health. Call us at to schedule an appointment or by booking online now.

Zika in Brazil

Although the disease has spread through Brazil for years, reports of Zika in the country were rampant leading up to the Rio Olympics in August.

Mosquito-borne diseases are nothing new to Brazil. Locals and tourists were dealing with the risk of malaria and yellow fever long before Zika was a problem.

But, research for a Zika vaccine is still in progress and Brazil is considered a high-risk location for the virus.

A vaccine is unlikely to finish all phases of testing before 2018. The best way to stay free of Zika is to repel the mosquitoes that are carrying the virus.

Insect repellents and mosquito nets are already recommended in Brazil due to the other mosquito-borne diseases. Cover your skin with long pants and sleeves in areas that are busy with the insects. Wear shoes whenever possible, as mosquitoes that prominently carry Zika, Aedes aegypti, are known to target feet.

Where Should I Go While Visiting Brazil?

As South America’s largest country and the fifth biggest in the world, Brazil has ample room for adventures.

The only issue is narrowing these choices down.

Brazilians embrace a vibrant and energetic lifestyle that stretches to their celebrations. And no Brazilian celebration is bigger than Carnival.

Rio is home to the biggest Carnival parties, with parades and concerts throughout the city. The city is welcoming to tourists during the five day party, allowing for a quick way to take in all the raucous Brazilian culture.

Ouro Preto is a much quieter option for those trying to get a taste of Brazilian history.

The former mining town is covered in centuries-old art that’s housed in extravagant buildings. Narrow alleys create a winding path to find the town’s many ancient landmarks.

With almost 7,500 kilometres of coastline, Brazil’s greatest feature may be its beaches.

Strong winds on Mole Beach attracts surfers and paragliders from around the world. It may take a journey to reach Lopes Mendes, but its beach is world-renowned for simplicity and beauty. And for those that just want to stay in Rio, Ipanema Beach brings the city’s lively culture to a mile-long stretch of sand.

Did we miss any must-see spots or health information for Brazil? Let us know in the comments, or via Facebook and Twitter.