Travel Vaccines and Advice for Armenia
Armenia may not have a reputation as a tourist destination, but do not let that deter you from visiting. From breathtaking monasteries to great cafes, Armenia is on travellers’ radar.
Armenia is considered a European or Middle Eastern country despite being in Asia.
Yerevan is a cozy destination for all types of travellers. The city is full of restaurants, venues, and shops. Museums here are popular including the History Museum of Armenia and the Armenian Military Museum. Geghard Monastery is a must see. It is in the Yerevan region, and has religious significance with superb views.
Armenia is a very mountainous country and Dilijan is in the center of it all. Often a getaway for citizens from all over the country, Dilijan is an escape for those outdoor loving travellers. Its pleasant hiking trails, lakes, and distant mountains provide a great scenic backdrop.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Armenia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Armenia
Do I Need a Visa for Armenia?
What Is the Climate Like in Armenia?
How Safe Is Armenia?
The Geghard Monastery in Armenia
What Should I Take to Armenia?
Canadian Embassy in Armenia
Do I Need Vaccines for Armenia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Armenia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Armenia: hepatitis A, polio, 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. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. 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 Armenia |
||
| 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. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. 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 Armenia |
||
| 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 – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects mammals and spreads through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Preventing rabies involves vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals, and seeking immediate medical attention if exposed. The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventive measure that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- 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 viral infections that can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. Vaccination is the most effective way to halt their transmission. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, strengthens immunity, reducing the chances of contracting and spreading these diseases.
Tuberculosis is a threat in Armenia. Passport Health clinics offer TB testing at most locations.
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 Armenia
Prevent Bug Bites in Armenia
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 Armenia
Stay healthy overseas by favoring cooked and hot dishes, reputable eateries, and practicing good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages and use caution with tap water. Enjoy hot drinks and alcohol responsibly. To steer clear of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these strategies: eat safe foods, drink treated water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be discerning about local cuisine.
Altitude Sickness in Armenia
Altitude sickness, triggered by low oxygen levels at high elevations, presents with symptoms such as headache and fatigue. Avoiding AMS involves gradual ascent, hydration, and possibly using medications like acetazolamide. If AMS symptoms emerge, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest and medical attention are imperative.
Infections To Be Aware of in Armenia
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
- Leishmaniasis – Sand fly bites are the main mode of leishmaniasis transmission, but it can spread through other means. Prevention measures include using insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and minimizing outdoor activities during times when sand fly are most active.
Do I Need a Visa for Armenia?
A visa is required for travel to Armenia. The country does provide some evisa services. See the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for details.
Armenia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Armenia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Armenia 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 Armenia?
Armenia is considered a highland continental climate, with mountainous features. Because of its size, it is best to classify Armenia by season. Here are the descriptions of the four major seasons in Armenia:
- Spring – Spring is short in Armenia. Expect decent temperatures around 20.
- Summer – The warmest time of the year; nights can be colder though. Temperatures stay between 25 and 30 most days.
- Fall – A longer season in Armenia. Temperatures are usually around 15.
- Winter – A dry climate means harsher winters with lots of snow. Temperatures hover around zero with occasion dips lower.
Temperatures do vary by geographical area in the country. A rainy season occurs during the summer, though only amounts to about 25 to 50 centimetres of rain total. The best time to visit is in June or September, when rainfall is low and temperatures are comfortable.
How Safe Is Armenia?
Armenia is as an area with little crime. But, remain alert in crowded areas and keep belongings close. The most frequent reported crime is theft. Store important belongings in a safe space.
Transportation in Armenia is more variable than that in Canada. Rules of the road are different including more reckless driving and unkempt or unpaved roads. Avoid travelling in the nighttime and avoiding any bordering areas of Azerbaijan due to conflict.
Public transportation in Armenia is frequently reported as dangerous and poorly kept. If you do choose public transportation, minibuses are the most common form in Armenia. Taxis are also available.
The Geghard Monastery in Armenia
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Geghard Monastery stunning architecture will take you on a trip through history. Dating back to the 4th century, this monastery was crafted over time with authentic Armenian stonework. The structure is beautifully built into the land and rock formations around it.
Another aspect of its significance comes from what is found inside. During the crucifixion, Jesus was pierced with a spear. It is said to now be housed here at the Geghard Monastery.
Not quite that enthralled by religion? Geghard Monastery also offers fantastic views of the Azat River Gorge. It is a very calming location, a great day trip to escape the bustling of city life. Additionally, the castle-like architecture is a mecca for those seeking a great photograph!
What Should I Take to Armenia?
Here are recommended items to bring along with you to Armenia:
- Medication and First Aid – It is always better to be prepared. Bring a simple first aid kit and any medications you may need.
- Sunscreen and Bug Spray – Sunscreen should be on your list even in the winter months. Look to invest in bug spray that contains at least 20 percent of DEET or more.
- Clothing – High quality fabric clothing is suggested for Armenia. Armenian women do not go out in public in anything above their knees. Be sure to pack proper clothing to accommodate for local customs. A good pair of shoes is also suggested for the varying conditions.
Canadian Embassy in Armenia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. While no consular services are available in Armenia, the region is served by the Canadian Embassy in Greece:
Embassy of Canada in Greece
48 Ethnikis Antistaseos Street,
Chalandri, 152 31, Athens, Greece
Tel.: +30 210 727 3400
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Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Armenia
“The nurse was extremely knowledgeable and patient with us. She answered all our questions about Armenia. Would go back in a heartbeat,”
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