Estonia
About Estonia
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Language | Estonian. Russian is also widely spoken. |
| Capital | Tallinn |
The Republic of Estonia is located in eastern Europe between Latvia and Russia, and borders on both the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland. Estonia is one of the countries in the European Union with the smallest population, 1.2 million people.
The government of Estonia is a parliamentary republic. The head of state is a prime minister who is nominated by the president and approved by the parliament.
Over the centuries, Estonia has had many conquerors. After occupation by the Soviet Union following World War II, Estonia regained its independence in 1991. Today, Estonia is considered a stable democracy with a growing economy. The economy has a strong electronic and telecommunications sector. Estonians developed Skype, providing free internet calls the world over.
Tourism has grown in Estonia, and the country is known for medieval castles, churches, and other sites. The capital, Tallinn, has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates back to the 13th century.
Recommended Vaccinations For Estonia
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine
**Travellers who plan to visit Lääne-Eesti in Estonia during early spring to late autumn should consider this vaccine if they plan on hiking or camping as they may be exposed to infected ticks.**
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
Those travellers who may have contact with bats are at higher risk and should consider the vaccination against rabies.
Recommended Medications For Estonia
There are no recommendations for Estonia at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Estonia
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Estonia.
Hepatitis A
There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Estonia through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
For Some Travellers
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.
Measles
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies
**Rabies occurs in this country. Travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk.**
Tick-Borne Encephalitis
**Tick-borne encephalitis occurs in Estonia, particularly in Lääne-Eesti during early spring to late autumn.**
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 the general population.
Safety & Security in Estonia
Personal Safety
Most travellers do not experience any safety and security problems in Estonia. Nevertheless, take normal precautions to avoid petty crime and theft. Always be alert in your surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and mugging, has increased in Tallinn’s Old Town and other tourist areas. Car theft is common. There have been incidents of food or drinks being spiked and tourists robbed. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never let your drink out of your sight.
Avoid unlit parks and streets after dark. Driving in Estonia can be dangerous, especially at night and in rural areas which are often unlit and may have animals wandering onto roadways. Winter driving can also be dangerous due to ice and snow. Do not take unmarked taxis, and avoid hailing a taxi on the street.
Same-sex sexual activity is legal and discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited in Estonia.
Same-sex marriages will be recognised from 1 January 2024.
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.
