Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belgium
Belgium is known as a country at the crossroads of medieval and modern-day. It is not uncommon to spend the morning touring the grounds of a centuries-old castle and the afternoon strolling through a museum of contemporary art.
Belgium is one of the most sought-after renaissance destinations in Europe. Elegant buildings sit side-by-side with cobblestone streets, interrupted by an occasional winding waterway.
Brussels, the country’s capital is a bilingual hub for international political gatherings. Belgium’s reputation as a gathering place for politicians has made it a target for terrorist attacks.
Security is improving in Belgium and the country hasn’t seen a large attack for some time.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Belgium?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Belgium
Do I Need a Visa for Belgium?
What Is the Climate Like in Belgium?
How Safe Is Belgium?
Enjoy a Trip to Bruges
What Should I Take to Belgium?
Canadian Embassy in Belgium
Do I Need Vaccines for Belgium?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belgium. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belgium: 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 –
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 Belgium |
||
| 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 | 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 Belgium |
||
| 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, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
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 Belgium
Prevent Bug Bites in Belgium
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Belgium
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to PHAC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Do I Need a Visa for Belgium?
A passport which is valid from the expected date of departure from the Schengen area is required to enter the country. A tourist and business visa is not required for stays up to 90 days in the Schengen area. The 90 -day period begins upon initial entry into any Schengen area country. Visits exceeding 90 days require a visa which is valid for 180 cumulative days.
Belgium Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Belgium? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Belgium 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 Belgium?
Belgium is a small country so the climate does not change drastically region to region. The climate is considered temperate with cool summers and mild winters. The country experiences all four seasons.
- Brussels – This region experiences mild temperatures year round. There are occasional rain and snowfall in the cooler seasons.
- Antwerp – The city is a sub-oceanic climate with higher levels of humidity and more rain than other regions.
- Rochefort – This area typically experiences more rainfall than most areas. It remains generally warm throughout the year.
How Safe Is Belgium?
Belgium is generally a safe country for tourists to visit. But, like any other destination, there are certain precautions that visitors should take to ensure their safety. Here are some tips on how tourists can stay safe in Belgium:
- Be aware of pickpockets: Tourists should be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their belongings.
- Stay in well-lit areas: Tourists should avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.
- Use official taxis: Tourists should only use official taxis with a company name and phone number displayed on the vehicle.
- Keep valuables out of sight: Tourists should keep their valuables, such as cash, passports, and credit cards, out of sight and in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.
- Stay informed: Tourists should stay informed of any travel warnings or alerts issued by their home country’s government or the Belgian government.
- Respect local customs: Tourists should respect local customs and laws, including dress codes, public behavior, and alcohol consumption.
- Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi: Tourists should avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities such as online banking, as these networks may be insecure.
- In case of emergency, dial 112: Tourists should memorize the emergency number 112 and use it to contact the police, ambulance, or fire department in case of an emergency.
By following these tips and staying aware of their surroundings, tourists can enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit to Belgium.
Enjoy a Trip to Bruges
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Bruges is a charming and picturesque city in Belgium that is often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to its canals and medieval architecture.
Visitors can marvel at the well-preserved Gothic-style buildings, narrow streets, and scenic canals. You can also take a boat tour to explore the city’s historic sites and buildings.
The city has many museums that showcase its art, history, and culture, including the Groeningemuseum, which houses a collection of Flemish art, and the Chocolate Museum, which offers an insight into the history and production of Belgian chocolate.
Visitors can also sample the local beer and chocolate in one of the city’s many bars, cafes, and chocolate shops.
The Markt is the central square in Bruges and is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, offering views of the famous Belfry tower and a bustling atmosphere.
Bruges is also an ideal base for day trips to explore the surrounding Flanders region and visit other historic towns like Ghent and Antwerp.
What Should I Take to Belgium?
Belgium has a temperate climate, with mild summers and chilly winters. Tourists should pack accordingly for the time of year they are travelling. Here are some items that tourists should consider packing for a trip to Belgium:
- Comfortable walking shoes: Belgium is a small country with many historic cities and towns that are best explored on foot. Tourists should pack comfortable walking shoes to ensure they can explore the cities and towns without any discomfort.
- Warm clothes: Belgium can be chilly, even in the summer. Tourists should pack warm clothes such as a jacket, scarf, and hat.
- Rain gear: Belgium is known for its frequent rain showers. Tourists should pack a raincoat or umbrella to stay dry.
- Adapter: Belgium uses a two-pronged electrical outlet. Tourists should pack an adapter if they plan on charging any electronic devices.
- Travel documents: Tourists should make sure to bring their passport, visa (if necessary), and any other travel documents they may need.
- Medications: Tourists should pack any prescription medications they need, as well as over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers and allergy medicine.
- Camera: Belgium is a beautiful country with many historic landmarks and scenic views. Tourists should pack a camera to capture their experiences.
- Swimsuit (summer only): If visiting Belgium in the summer, tourists may want to pack a swimsuit to take advantage of the country’s beaches and outdoor swimming pools.
You should pack for comfort and practicality when visiting Belgium. Consider the weather and activities when planning what to pack.
Canadian Embassy in Belgium
The embassy in Belgium provides many services. These include help with passports, birth certificates and most all travel concerns.
Canadian Embassy in Brussels, Belgium
Avenue des Arts 58
1000 Brussels
Belgium
+32 (0)2 741-0611
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Belgium
“Second visit with Passport Health, this time for a trip to Belgium. Very personable and knowledgeable. Truly a wealth of information. Can t say enough good things.”
“The nurse was extremely knowledgeable and helpful! Can’t wait to visit Belgium!”
“Our nurse was very knowledgeable and helpful. He was able to assist us in all of our questions and concerns about Belgium and took the time to deliver perfect service.”
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