2014 World Cup Brazil – Travel Health Advice

The FIFA 2014 World Cup is to be held in Brazil from 12 June until 13 July, 2014. If you are planning on travelling to Brazil to attend this event, make sure you book an appointment with one of our travel nurses at least six weeks before you leave.

Depending upon your itinerary and the matches you are travelling to see you may require a number of vaccinations and medication to ensure that you have a safe and happy trip. It is recommended that all travellers to Brazil are vaccinated for the following diseases:

Depending upon the type of trip that you are planning, you may also need to be advised to receive one or more of the following travel vaccinations.

Check out our Brazil destination page for further information regarding the vaccinations that you may require for your trip.

Malaria in Brazil

Malaria is a very serious and potentially fatal disease and is present in certain areas of Brazil. It is particularly high risk in Amazon areas, including Manaus where England play their first match (England vs Italy) on 14th June 2014. If you are travelling to this match it is recommended that you take antimalarial tablets. Speak to one of our travel nurses who can advise you on the right type of malaria medication for you.

Further travel health advice for Brazil

Travel Insurance: The UK and Brazil do not have a reciprocal health care agreement. Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of your trip to Brazil to includes adequate cover for all intended itinerary and activities as well as medical evacuation.

Personal Safety: Brazil unfortunately has a high level of crime. Make sure you stay safe, especially in big cities. Always be aware of your surroundings at large gatherings, including before, during and after matches. Ensure you book with reputable operators if you are thinking of joining in water sports, hiking tours, or boat tours up the Amazon, particularly on its tributaries.

Heat and Humidity: The Brazilian climate is largely tropical, and in coastal areas (such as Rio) summer temperatures can run 35 or higher. In Amazon basin, the weather is always very hot and humid. (40 and upwards at times).

Sun Smart: It will be winter in Brazil during the World Cup, however the sun will still be quite strong. Remember to apply sunblock (SPV at least 15), and drink plenty of water, and wear a hat.

Water Safe: To avoid getting travellers diarrhoea it is recommended that you drink only bottled water, which is cheap and easily-accessible. Avoid ice cubes, and use bottled water to brush your teeth.

Food and Drink: Brazilian cuisine varies enormously from region to region, and reflects the various cultures that make up this melting pot. If there were a National dish, perhaps it would be “Feijoada”…a black bean stew with a mixture of various meats.

Brazil Facts and Figures

Population: 193+ million

Language: Portuguese (English is spoken and/or understood in major centres)

Currency: Brazilian Real

Capital City: Brasilia

Recent Travel Health News for Brazil

April 2014: Dengue Fever Outbreak Brazil 

September 2013: Dengue Fever Outbreak Brazil