Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belarus
Belarus is situated in northeastern Europe bordering Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. This country recently won its independence from the USSR in August 1991. But, Belarus has had a very diverse culture independent from Russia for much longer than that.
Belarusians are known for their hands-on approach to the many works they produce. This includes woodworking and glass blowing. The country also embraces the art and literary side of their culture by sponsoring annual cultural festivals.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Belarus?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Belarus
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Belarus?
What Is the Climate Like in Belarus?
How Safe Is Belarus?
Belovezhskaya Pushcha
What Should I Take to Belarus?
Canadian Embassy in Belarus
Do I Need Vaccines for Belarus?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belarus. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belarus: 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 –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - 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 Belarus |
||
| 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 | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Belarus |
||
| 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 – The hepatitis A virus is highly contagious, primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact. To prevent infection, practice good hygiene and get vaccinated.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travellers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread through bodily fluids, poses a significant health risk. Safe practices help, but vaccination is the ultimate safeguard. It prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring strong and persistent protection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
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 Belarus
Prevent Bug Bites in Belarus
If you get bitten by bugs, clean the area, resist scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone or antihistamines to relieve itching. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Belarus
When travelling, ensure food safety by adhering to PHAC recommendations, which include eating fully cooked foods, avoiding raw seafood, and selecting reputable dining places. Safely drink bottled beverages, avoiding ice in uncertain water sources, and consume alcohol in moderation. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea through hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary areas.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Belarus?
All citizens must be in possession of a passport which is valid for 3 months from the expected departure date. You also must have proof of valid medical insurance to enter and will be forced to purchase state insurance at the port of entry. Visas are not required for tourism stays under 30 days.
Belarus Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Belarus? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Belarus 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 Belarus?
Belarus is a country in Europe that has different weather in different places. The capital city, Minsk, is warm in the summer, around 20 to 25 degrees, and very cold in the winter, around -5 degrees. Brest and Grodno are also popular places to visit in Belarus, and they have similar weather to Minsk. In the summer, it’s warm and humid, around 20, and in the winter, it’s cold and snowy, around -5.
Belarus has a temperate continental climate, which means it has four distinct seasons. Visitors should be ready for changes in temperature, and it can snow a lot in the winter. It’s essential to check the forecast before travelling to Belarus and bring appropriate clothing for the weather.
How Safe Is Belarus?
Belarus has little street crime, but instances of mugging and pick-pocketing do occur. It’s best to avoid poorly lit areas and public transportation when alone as this makes you an easier target.
A traveller’s biggest threats in Belarus are organized crime and cyber-crime.
Cyber-crime in Belarus includes credit card skimming, hacking and identity theft. Consider using IR-shielded jackets or materials.
Vehicle theft is common in Belarus. Sport-utility and luxury vehicles tend to be the most sought-after.
Belovezhskaya Pushcha
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Belovezhskaya Pushcha is the largest ancient forest in Europe. It is even mentioned in several ancient texts and scriptures, some dating back as far as fifth century B.C.
Nearly 800 bison of the largest bison population in the world call this forest home. Visitors to the forest can spend their day hiking or biking while spotting creatures along the way.
If roughing it in the wilderness isn’t for you, Belovezhskaya Pushcha still has a lot to offer. You can visit the nature museum and zoo or peruse the souvenir and food stands that can be found in this area.
What Should I Take to Belarus?
If you’re planning a trip to Belarus, there are some things you should pack. Belarus has four seasons, so bring clothes suitable for the weather during your visit. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, and a travel adapter for your electronic devices.
Bring personal items like toiletries and medication, and a camera for taking pictures. Don’t forget important documents like your passport, visa, and travel insurance. Bring enough money or a credit/debit card that can be used internationally.
If you plan to do outdoor activities, pack gear like tents, sleeping bags, fishing rods, or ski gear. Consider bringing a language guide or translation app to help you communicate with locals. Check the weather forecast before you leave and pack accordingly.
Canadian Embassy in Belarus
Canada currently has no residential government office in Belarus. The embassy in Poland handles all consular responsibilities for travellers in Belarus.
Canadian Embassy in Warsaw, Poland
ul. J. Matejki 1/5
00-481 Warsaw
Poland
(+48) 22 584 31 00
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