Risk / Health Info for Argentina

Do I need shots for Argentina?

If you are wondering about vaccines to go to Argentina, then your healthcare advisor at Global Travel Clinics can help you. Shots for hepatitis A and typhoid will help you to avoid a pair of unpleasant GI illnesses.

Rabies occurs in Argentina. This often fatal disease is spread by animal bites and some travellers who are at increased risk of animal bites should get a vaccine against rabies. Children are common victims of dog bites. Runners and cyclists, also. If you are going to a remote region or if you will be around animals then ask about a rabies shot. Seek urgent medical advice about an animal bite or scratch in Argentina, even if you have been vaccinated.

Some groups of travellers should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a healthcare setting, including dentistry or in a lab that handles body fluids. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

Do you need a yellow fever certificate in Argentina? The answer is yes. Your certificate is proof of immunity and a vaccination should give you lifelong immunity from this mosquito-borne disease. So long as you keep the certificate safe, you will never need to get another one.

Are there hospitals in Argentina?

Medical facilities are good but expensive so make sure your travel insurance will provide cover. Expect crowds in the public hospitals. Anyone with a long-term condition should bring their own medications and supplies with them as it may be hard to find specific items.

The emergency number in Argentina is 107 or 911.

Protect your health in Argentina

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Argentina so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. You can get a shot that will protect you against yellow fever; and malaria prophylaxis is available for your trip to Argentina. Ask your travel health nurse if these are suitable for you.

Are there any other health concerns in Argentina?

Pollution in Argentina’s urban areas can make respiratory problems such as asthma much worse.

Altitude in Argentina

Parts of Argentina are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Dengue fever in Argentina

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Argentina. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Argentina

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Argentina at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Zika in Argentina

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Argentina. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Argentina. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.