French Polynesia

• Region: Oceania
• Population: 280,000
• Capital: Pape'te
• Languages: French, Tahitian, local languages
• Currency: CFP franc (XPF)

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 (French Polynesia). 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.

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.

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.

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 French Polynesia, contact:

French Polynesia - Nouméa (New Caledonia)
Consulate General of Australia
Address: 7th Floor, Immeuble Foch, 19 Avenue du Maréchal Foch, Nouméa, New Caledonia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 22, Nouméa, New Caledonia
Tel.: 689 272 414
Fax: 689 278 001

French Polynesia - TAHITI
Australian Honorary Consul
Postal Address: P.O. Box 9068 Motu Uta, 98715 Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
Tel.: 689 468 853
Fax: 689 468 854
E-mail: virginie.kiou.petropol@mail.pf

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!