Iceland
About Iceland
| Currency | Icelandic króna (ISK) |
| Language | Icelandic |
| Capital | Reykjavik |
The Republic of Iceland is an island in northern Europe, northwest of the United Kingdom, and between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Greenland Sea. The country is sparsely populated with a population of about 315,000 people. Although the national language is Icelandic, English, Nordic languages, and German are widely spoken.
The government is a constitutional republic with a president as chief of state and a prime minister as head of government. In recent years, Iceland’s economy expanded mainly due to the financial sector. Iceland’s banks expanded overseas and foreign revenue coming into the country fueled the economic growth. With the global economic crisis of 2008, Iceland’s banking system collapsed, and the International Monetary Fund stepped in to provide emergency financial assistance. In 2011, the economy began to show some growth and unemployment began to fall.
Iceland is known for its glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, active volcanoes, the Northern lights and breathtaking landscape. Visitors can enjoy thermal pools, museums, and a range of outdoor activities.
Recommended Vaccinations For Iceland
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Although the risk of exposure to hepatitis A is low in Iceland, it is always beneficial to be vaccinated against hepatitis A.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Although the risk of exposure to hepatitis B is low in Iceland, it is always beneficial to have the vaccination against hepatitis B.
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
The rabies vaccination is recommended for those travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats.
Recommended Medications For Iceland
There are no recommendations for Iceland at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Iceland
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a some risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Iceland.
Hepatitis B
There is some risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Iceland.
For Some Travellers
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.
Measles
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
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 Iceland and is considered a low risk for travellers, However, it may occur in bats.**
Safety & Security in Iceland
Personal Safety
Petty theft and anti-social behaviour can occur, particularly around bars where people gather late at night in downtown Reykjavik. Travellers should always take precautions to secure valuables and cash.
Possession of even small quantities of soft drugs carry penalties of heavy fines and/or imprisonment. Using or importing khat/qat (legal in the UK) is against the law in Iceland.
Although main roads in Iceland are in good condition, inland, rural roads may be unpaved, narrow and in poor condition. The highland roads are only open during the summer months. Drive with caution, especially in the winter when the weather can be unpredictable. When driving in Iceland, headlights must always be kept on.
If you plan on participating in outdoor adventure activities, ensure you do so with a group or a guide. Monitor the weather forecast closely. Ensure travel and medical insurance is acquired before departing and that your insurance policy covers outdoor adventure activities and medical evacuation.
Iceland has active volcanoes. Strong earthquakes could occur before and after an eruption leading to further volcanic eruptions.
Iceland is very progressive with regards to LGBTI rights. Same-sex sexual activity and relations are legal in Iceland and discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited.
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.
