Travel Vaccines and Advice for France
France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. In 2013 alone, 85.6 million people traveled there to see some of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
If you enjoy keeping things simple, you might decide to spend an afternoon tasting French delicacies from the local cafes. Or if you’re more artistically inclined, strolling through the amazing galleries of the Louvre.
You could set your sights on a daring trek through the French Alps. Or a few flights of stairs running up the Eiffel Tower may be all that stand in the way of you and a stunning photograph.
With nostalgic city streets, historic museums, stunning architecture and endless kilometres of lush, European countryside, the country offers something spectacular to every traveller who visits.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for France?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in France
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for France?
What Is the Climate Like in France?
How Safe Is France?
Climbing the French Alps
What Should I Take to France?
Canadian Embassy in France
Do I Need Vaccines for France?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for France. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for France: 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 France |
||
| 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 France |
||
| 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 – Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by a contagious virus, can have severe symptoms. To prevent its spread, vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine is essential, along with maintaining hygiene practices. This vaccine effectively protects against infection.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted through animal bites, affecting the nervous system. The rabies vaccine, given before or after potential exposure, prevents the virus from developing into active disease. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups like travellers, while post-exposure shots are crucial after suspected rabies exposure.
- 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 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.
For trips to most destinations, including France, a vaccine against hepatitis A is recommended. Before travelling, all visitors should have received at least the first vaccine.
France is a fully developed nation. Travellers should take the same precautions they would at home, with an understanding that the food may be different from what they are used to.
If you have any questions about travelling to France or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in France
Prevent Bug Bites in France
When bitten by bugs, clean the area with soap and water, refrain from scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies. For severe reactions or tick bites, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Following PHAC guidelines can help prevent and manage bug bites effectively.
Food and Water Safety in France
Safely enjoying meals abroad involves precautions like washing hands, avoiding street food, and consuming well-cooked dishes. Opt for bottled or canned drinks and stay vigilant about seal integrity. Preventing travellers’ diarrhea means maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding raw foods, and selecting reputable eateries.
Altitude Sickness in France
At high altitudes, altitude sickness can strike, manifesting as headaches, dizziness, and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms develop, immediate descent to lower altitudes is essential, along with rest and medical evaluation if symptoms persist.
Infections To Be Aware of in France
- Leishmaniasis – Infected sand flies are the primary vectors of leishmaniasis. Preventive measures include the use of insect repellents, protective clothing and staying indoors during sand fly peak hours.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can result in birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for France?
France allows Canadian citizens using a valid passport to enter and remain in the country for up to 90 days. Call your nearest consulate general before your trip with any questions or concerns.
France Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to France? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of France 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 France?
The weather in France varies depending on what region you plan to visit. Temperatures in Normandy, for example, will be very different from the Mediterranean coast. Here is what you can expect in some of France’s most popular destinations:
- Paris – Temperature ranges between 20 and 25C from May through October. Temperatures range from 5C in January to 25C in August. October is the wettest month, with June and July as the hottest.
- Normandy – The average daytime high during the summer months is 25C. Winter weather is fairly mild. The weather in the area can be unpredictable. Be sure to research typical weather trends for the specific dates you plan on visiting.
- Grenoble – This city is located in the southeastern region of France and near the French Alps. July is the hottest month with temperatures around 20. It is in January with temperatures around zero. May is the wettest month.
How Safe Is France?
The Canadian government strongly urges citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance due to recent terrorist attacks. Many groups are still operating in Europe and could pose a threat to both French and Canadian citizens.
That being said, France has made great strides in improving internal security. Travellers should feel as safe in France as they would Canada.
France has a lower crime rate than Canada. But, precautions should still be taken to avoid pickpockets and other petty crime.
Any time that you are travelling abroad, it is important to be aware of possible safety concerns. But, it is also equally as important that you do not let these occurrences fuel your fear of travel.
Climbing the French Alps
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When travellers think of France, they often imagine a romantic tourist destination with nostalgic city views and endless kilometres of green vineyards. But, France is also home to Europe’s highest mountains; the French Alps.
Located in the Rhône-Alpes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur regions, the Alps stand at a towering 4,810 meters. The mountain range takes an average of 10-12 hours to hike to the summit and boasts some of the most exquisite, scenic views in Europe.
Mont Blanc, the highest mountain peak in the Alps, has become a popular destination for travellers. If the duration of the hike seems too intense for your taste, there are other alternatives. Tourists can also enjoy a gorgeous view of Mont Blanc by taking a relaxing 20-minute ride up on Europe’s highest cable car on the nearby Aiguille du Midi.
If you’re planning a summer trip, the Alps provide an excellent opportunity for mountain biking and hiking.
If you’re planning a winter vacation, the mountain range serves as an attraction to skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Ski resorts such as Chamonix and Portes de Soleil offer charming housing facilities.
What Should I Take to France?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to France:
- Euros – Before your trip, have some funds converted to Euros. You may need Euros to pay for your transportation fare from the airport to your hotel. The currency exchange shops in the airport do not always offer the best rates.
- French Phrasebook – Although you can survive a trip through France without knowing the language, it’s always better to be prepared. Having access to a few key phrases can make a difference during your trip.
- Traveller Checks – The last thing a traveller wants to deal with is solving issues of lost or stolen money. Traveller checks serve as a safety-net to ensure that you can get your money back.
- Contact Numbers – These numbers are great to have saved in your phone before your trip. It’s better to be prepared for lost credit cards, emergency situations or whatever else may arise.
- Binoculars – Binoculars are the perfect tool to use while walking through historical French churches and landmarks. You can ensure that you will never miss a detail of the extraordinary architecture found throughout Europe.
Canadian Embassy in France
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in France, there is a Canadian Embassy in Paris.
Canadian Embassy in France
Ambassade du Canada
130, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
75008 Paris, France
Tel.: +33 (0)1 44 43 29 02
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for France
“Very knowledgeable nurse, calm and she explained everything about France clearly. I felt comfortable with her and believed she was offering the service I needed only.”
“My nurse was very knowledgeable and was able to answer all my questions about France! She was very friendly and helpful throughout my appointment”
“The staff is very professional and knowledgeable. They explain everything for France thoroughly and I never feel like I am asking too many questions.”
“Very thorough explanation of potential risks and options available to protect oneself on my trip to France. It’s a great reassurance to have that level of guidance when travelling.”
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