Spain - Canary Islands
About Spain - Canary Islands
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Language | Spanish |
| Capital | Santa Cruz Tenerife and also Las Palmas de Gran Canaria |
The Canary Islands are located just off the northwest coast of mainland Africa, west of Morocco and Western Sahara. The Canary Islands are one of 17 Autonomous Communities, established by the Spanish Constitution, and which sets out the rights of the Canary Islands to self-government. Autonomy was granted by Spain in 1982. The population is about 2,000,000 people.
The government is comprised of an elected legislative assembly, a president nominated by the King of Spain to head a government council and a supreme court of the autonomous community.
The Canary Islands are a major tourist destination with over 12 million people visiting the Islands every year. The Islands produce many fruits and vegetables, and the fishing industry is strong.
With few rivers or sources of fresh water on the islands, clean drinking water sources are limited and development projects continue to be a concern for environmentalists.
Recommended Vaccinations For Spain - Canary Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Although there is a low risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Although there is a low risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
**Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).**
Recommended Medications For Spain - Canary Islands
There are no recommendations for Spain - Canary Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Spain - Canary Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a low risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Canary Islands through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a low risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Canary Islands.
For Some Travellers
Measles
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with an infected person.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Rabies
**Rabies has not been reported in Canary Islands and is considered a low risk for travellers, However, it may occur in bats.**
Safety & Security in Spain - Canary Islands
Personal Safety
Travellers to the Canary Islands rarely experience safety and security problems, however, always follow normal safety precautions. Be sure personal belongings, valuables, and travel documents are kept safe at all times. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. It’s most prevalent in larger cities and particularly during holidays, festivals and weekends. Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches, lakes and rivers. The main warning flags used in Spain are: a) Green for calm waters where swimming is allowed, b) Yellow for agitated waters where swimming with precautions is recommended, c) Red for dangerous waters where swimming or entering the water is forbidden and d) Black for contaminated waters where you should avoid swimming. In marine areas, coral, jellyfish and other ocean life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on. As in Spain, same-sex marriage is legal and there is a general acceptance of same-sex behaviour.
Extreme Violence
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.
Political Unrest
Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning in cities. Avoid any protests, political gatherings or marches. Follow the advice of local authorities.
