Health and Vaccinations Tips and Requirements for US Citizens Traveling to Greece

What vaccinations are recommended or required for travelers from the U.S. to Greece?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all travelers from the U.S. to Greece should be up to date on routine vaccinations, such as the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, and an annual flu shot. In addition, the CDC suggests that travelers from the U.S. to Greece should consider receiving a hepatitis A vaccine prior to travel. Hepatitis B is also recommended for those who may be at risk for infection through sexual contact or injection drug use while in Greece.

Is there a risk of diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, or typhoid in Greece?

No, there is currently no risk of malaria, yellow fever, or typhoid in Greece. However, it is recommended that travelers take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses and seek medical advice before visiting any areas where these illnesses may be present.

Should I get a yellow fever vaccination, and is it required for entry into Greece?

The yellow fever vaccination is not required for entry into Greece. However, if you are coming from or have recently been in a country where yellow fever is present, it is recommended that you get the vaccination. You should consult with your doctor to determine if the vaccination is necessary for your particular travel situation.

What are the general health advisories or travel warnings for Greece?

1. Practice good personal hygiene, including regular hand washing and avoiding contact with people who are sick.

2. Avoid contact with wild animals and farm animals, and take steps to avoid mosquito bites.

3. Make sure your vaccines are up to date.

4. Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website for any travel advisories and be aware of health risks in Greece.

5. Be aware of the risk of terrorism; U.S. citizens should remain vigilant when in public places or using public transportation.

6. Monitor local media for updates on demonstrations and other security incidents that may occur in Greece, especially during times of heightened political tensions.

7. Observe water safety precautions; do not swim in freshwater sources, as they may contain harmful bacteria and other organisms, including the potentially deadly Naegleria fowleri amoeba.

8. Be aware of the risk of wildfires in the summer months; if you are outdoors, pay attention to air quality alerts issued by local authorities and take precautions to protect your lungs from smoke inhalation and to avoid contact with burning debris from fires.

Are there specific health risks or concerns that U.S. citizens should be aware of when traveling to Greece?



Yes, there are certain health risks and concerns that U.S. citizens should be aware of when traveling to Greece. Malaria is a risk in some parts of the country, particularly in rural areas and near bodies of water. It is recommended that travelers take precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and using insect repellent. Other common health risks include traveler’s diarrhea, which can be prevented by drinking bottled water, eating properly cooked food, avoiding unpasteurized dairy products, and washing hands frequently. Vaccines may also be recommended for travelers depending on their destination and personal health history. Additionally, the sun in Greece can be intense, so it is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburns and skin damage.

Do I need malaria prophylaxis, and if so, which medication is recommended for Greece?

Malaria is not present in Greece, so malaria prophylaxis is not necessary.

What precautions should I take to prevent food and waterborne illnesses in Greece?

1. Always make sure to drink bottled water when traveling in Greece. Avoid drinking tap water as it may not always be safe.

2. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood, as there is a chance they could contain bacterial or parasitic infections.

3. When eating at restaurants, make sure to ask for your food to be cooked thoroughly.

4. Make sure to wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer before eating or preparing food.

5. Store all food items in a cool and dry place away from animals.

6. Avoid street food vendors as they may not always adhere to proper hygiene standards.

7. Make sure to peel any fruits or vegetables you consume and avoid eating any pre-cut fruits or vegetables that may have been exposed to contaminated water.

Are there any dietary restrictions or considerations in Greece that I should be aware of?

Yes, there are some dietary restrictions and considerations in Greece that visitors should be aware of. The most common of these include avoiding pork, shellfish, and dairy products if you are keeping Kosher. Additionally, it is a common practice to avoid eating food that has been prepared using olive oil as a cooking oil as it is considered unclean. Vegetarians and vegans may encounter difficulty in Greece as many dishes are heavily reliant on animal products like meat, fish, eggs, and cheese. It is advisable to ask restaurant staff for vegan and vegetarian options when dining out.

Are there local healthcare facilities, and how is the quality of medical care in Greece?

Yes, there are local healthcare facilities in Greece. The quality of medical care in Greece is generally good. Greece ranks high in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) rankings for its healthcare system, scoring just behind the UK and ahead of the US. Greece has a very extensive public healthcare system, with free access to all medical services and treatments for citizens. Private healthcare is also available, at a higher cost.

Is the water safe to drink, or should I stick to bottled water in Greece?

It is generally safe to drink the tap water in Greece. However, if you are concerned, bottled water is widely available and is the preferred choice for many travelers.

Are there specific health concerns related to the local cuisine in Greece?

Yes, there are certain health concerns associated with the traditional cuisine in Greece. Eating too much fried or processed food can increase the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. High sodium levels can also pose a health risk. Additionally, due to the popularity of fried foods, there is an increased risk of foodborne illnesses. It is important to practice safe food handling when consuming traditional Greek cuisine.

What measures should I take to avoid insect-borne diseases like Zika or dengue fever?

1. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes to protect yourself from mosquito bites when outdoors.

2. Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 when outdoors. Be sure to follow product instructions.

3. Make sure windows and door screens are in good repair to keep mosquitoes out of your home.

4. Eliminate sources of standing water near your home, such as old tires, buckets, and other containers that can collect water and serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

5. Take preventive measures when traveling to areas with known outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika or dengue fever. This may include wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent.

Should I be concerned about altitude sickness or other environmental factors in certain regions of Greece?

Yes, it is important to be aware of environmental factors such as altitude and air quality when traveling to certain regions of Greece. In some parts of the country, such as mountainous areas, altitude sickness can be an issue. To minimize the chances of developing altitude sickness, acclimatize by ascending gradually, drink plenty of fluids, rest frequently and don’t overexert yourself. Additionally, air pollution is a problem in some parts of Greece, so you should be aware of the air quality in the areas you are visiting.

What over-the-counter medications should I bring, and are they available locally in Greece?

The most common over-the-counter medications that you should bring while traveling in Greece include pain relievers/fever reducers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, antacids such as Rennie or Tums, cold and flu medications, antihistamines, and topical creams for sunburns or insect bites. These medications are generally available in most pharmacies in Greece without a prescription.

Is travel insurance that covers medical emergencies recommended for my trip?

Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies for your trip. This type of insurance can protect you from the high costs associated with medical care abroad and provide coverage in case of an unexpected medical emergency.

What should I do in case of a medical emergency while in Greece?

If you experience a medical emergency while in Greece, contact the European Emergency Number (112) or the local emergency number (166). Be prepared to provide your name, location, and information about your condition. You should also seek out the nearest hospital or health center. Lastly, if you have travel insurance, contact your insurer for advice and assistance.

Are there any health considerations for specific activities or attractions I plan to visit in Greece?

Yes. Depending on what activities or attractions you plan to visit in Greece, there may be some health considerations that you should be aware of. For example, if you plan to visit the beach, you should take precautions to protect yourself from sun and heat exposure and make sure you use sunscreen with a high SPF rating. If you plan to visit ancient sites, be aware of your balance and footing, as some of the grounds may be uneven or slippery. Additionally, if you plan to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or swimming, make sure you are aware of the local wildlife and take appropriate safety precautions.

What is the air quality like in Greece, and are there pollution concerns?

The air quality in Greece is generally good. However, air pollution is a serious concern in the country’s major cities. The Greek government has taken steps to reduce air pollution, including introducing regulations to reduce emissions from vehicles and industry. Athens, the largest city in Greece, experiences some of the highest levels of air pollution in Europe.

Do I need to take any special precautions for my children’s health if they are traveling with me?

Yes, it is important to take extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of your children while traveling. Make sure you have a full list of all their medications and immunizations, as well as a first-aid kit. You should also be aware of any potential food, water or air-quality hazards in the area you are traveling to. In addition, ensure that your children wear sunscreen and appropriate clothing to protect them from the elements. Finally, be sure to look into any health insurance coverage you may need while abroad.

Where can I find the most up-to-date health information for Greece before and during my trip?

You can find the most up-to-date health information for Greece before and during your trip at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. The CDC website publishes travel health notices for Greece, including advice on preventing illnesses and injuries and staying safe during your travels. The website also includes information on vaccinations, food and water safety, and other health concerns that may arise in Greece. Additionally, you can check the Embassy of Greece in Washington, D.C., website for information on the current health situation in Greece.