China
- Region: Asia
- Population: 1,376,049,000
- Capital: Beijing
- Languages: Chinese
- Currency: Yuan (CNY)
Travelling is an exciting way to meet people and learn about different cultures. But you have to be careful. Travelling can expose you to disease and poor sanitary conditions. In this document, you will find practical information for safe and healthy travel. In a foreign country, just like at home, a little prevention goes a long way.
Before your stay
In this section, you will find the list of the immunizations and screenings recommended for Canadians travelling to the above destination (China). Some of them may also be mandatory. The following vaccinations apply to all travellers. For a personalized protection program adapted to your travelling and health needs, visit a travel medicine clinic. Plan ahead: If you need several vaccines, you may need several weeks to complete the immunization schedule.
- Diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles
- These vaccines are part of every Canadian's routine immunization schedule. Make sure that you have been vaccinated and that you have received the required booster shots.
- Cholera
- Cholera is present in this country. Protection and/or vaccination should be considered for certain travellers.
- Japanese encephalitis
- Vaccination is recommended for any stay longer than one month in endemic areas. It should also be considered if travelling to an at-risk area (e.g., rural area) or if an outbreak is underway, even if staying less than one month.
- Yellow fever
- A certificate of vaccination may be mandatory for certain travellers.
- Hepatitis A
- Vaccination is recommended for most travellers.
- Hepatitis B
- High prevalence of carriers. Vaccination is recommended for most travellers.
- Malaria
- Malaria prevention is recommended for certain areas of the country only. The choice of drug depends on the region of travel.
- HIV
- An HIV test or a medical certificate may be required depending on the length or type of stay. In addition, entry restrictions may apply to those who are HIV-positive.
- Typhoid fever
- Most travellers should be vaccinated. Transmission occurs via the fecal-oral route such as the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
During your stay
Once there, you should still be cautious as you could be exposed to other diseases. The presence of diseases that could pose a risk to your health has been reported in the country. The risk is related to the activities you choose to take part in as well as the areas you visit.
- Dengue
- Dengue fever is present in this country. To prevent infection, mosquito precautions are recommended.
- Tick-borne encephalitis
- Tick-borne encephalitis is present in certain areas, mainly from April to November. It is found in forested areas and farms. The disease can also be acquired by ingesting unpasteurized dairy products. Vaccination is recommended for certain travellers.
- Lyme disease
- Travellers who visit rural areas in endemic regions, particularly campers and backcountry enthusiasts, are at greater risk. These travellers should take protective measures to avoid insect bites.
- Rabies
- Vaccination is recommended for certain groups of travellers only. This includes people who will work in close contact with animals such as veterinarians, wildlife workers, spelunkers and adventure travellers. Vaccination is also recommended for children in special circumstances.
- Schistosomiasis
- Schistosomiasis is present in certain areas of the country. Avoid contact with fresh water (swimming, fishing, drinking untreated water).
- Zika Virus
- The virus has been circulating in this country or there are mosquitoes capable of transmitting the virus. Anti-mosquito protection can prevent the acquisition of Zika virus or any other infection transmitted by mosquitoes.
- Chikungunya Virus
- Mosquito precautions are essential throughout the country.
Healthy Travelling
Prior to your departure, you may want to register for the "Registration of Canadians Abroad" service. This is a free service that allows the Government of Canada to notify you in case of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest. For more information, visist the Government of Canada Web site at travel.gc.ca/travellingegistration.
If you have purchased travel insurance, your policy will likely include a 24/7 emergency assistance service to help you locate care and coordinate payment. Be sure to have their phone number with you at all times.
The Canadian Government also has several offices abroad that can provide you with numerous services when in a medical emergency. These services include, but are not limited to:
- Supplying names of local doctors and health facilities
- Visiting you in the hospital and providing basic translation services
- Arranging for medical evacuation if your required treatment is not available in the region (note: costs for this service will not be covered by the government, but may be covered by travel insurance)
If you need help when travelling in China, contact:
China - BEIJING
Embassy of Canada
Address: Consular Section, 19 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chao Yang District, Beijing 100600, China
Tel.: 86 (10) 5139-4000
Fax: 86 (10) 5139-4448
E-mail: beijing.consular@international.gc.ca
Website: www.china.gc.ca
China - CHONGQING
Consulate of Canada
Address: Room 1705, Metropolitan Tower, Wu Yi Lu, Yu Zhong District, Chongqing 400010, China
Tel.: 86 (23) 6373-8007
Fax: 86 (23) 6373-8026
E-mail: chonq@international.gc.ca
Website: www.chongqing.gc.ca
China - GUANGZHOU
Consulate General of Canada
Address: China Hotel Office Tower, Suite 801, Liu Hua Lu, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510015, China
Tel.: 86 (20) 8611-6100
Fax: 86 (20) 8611-6196
E-mail: ganzucanadaconsul@international.gc.ca
Website: www.guangzhou.gc.ca
China - Hong Kong
Consulate General of Canada
Address: 13th Floor, One Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central Hong Kong SAR, China
Postal Address: P.O. Box 11142, Hong Kong, China
Tel.: 85 (2) 3719 4700
Fax: 85 (2) 2847 7561
E-mail: hkong-cs@international.gc.ca
Website: www.hongkong.gc.ca
China - SHANGHAI
Consulate General of Canada
Address: Shanghai Centre, West Tower Suite 604, 1376 Nanjing Xi Lu, Shanghai, 200040, China
Tel.: 86 (21) 3279-2800
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 10800-1400125 (available only from Shanghai)
Fax: 86 (21) 3279-2801
E-mail: shngi@international.gc.ca
Website: www.shanghai.gc.ca
While in China, you will be able to phone to Canada through a Canadian operator by dialing a Canada-direct number: 108-186 (from all major cities).
Make sure that your passport is valid for the whole length of your trip.
Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months after your projected return date.
Bon voyage!
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.