Norway
About Norway
| Currency | Norwegian krone (NOK) |
| Language | Bokmal Norwegian and Nynorsk Norwegian. |
| Capital | Oslo |
The Kingdom of Norway is located on the western part of the Scandinavian Peninsula in northern Europe, west of Sweden. The country borders the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. Norway’s population is approximately 4.6 million people, and the country is one of the most sparsely populated in Europe.
The government of Norway is a constitutional hereditary monarchy. A king is the chief of state. A prime minister is the head of government.
Norway enjoys a high standard of living, with a welfare model of universal health care, social security system and subsidized higher education. Some of the challenges facing this country are rising immigration, the loss of Norway’s cultural heritage, and financing the welfare system.
Norway is one of the most scenic countries in the world, known for fjords, forests, mountains, and much of Norway is wilderness. Norway’s environment is embodied in its national parks that represent the country’s desire to protect its environment as much as possible.
Recommended Vaccinations For Norway
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a low risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, however, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a low risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, however, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
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.).
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine
Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis is recommended if travelling in Norway or where contact with ticks might occur (camping, hiking, outdoor activities) during early spring to late autumn.
Recommended Medications For Norway
There are no recommendations for Norway at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Norway
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a low risk of exposure to hepatitis B for this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a low risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country.
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.
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.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis
There is a risk of Tick-borne Encephalitis in some areas of this country. The main affected areas are found along the southern coast of Norway in the counties of Agder, Buskerud and Vestfold og Telemark. There is also a possible risk in other coastal regions from the south and into the arctic circle in the north. The transmission season varies, however, ticks are most active during early spring to late autumn.
Rabies
**Rabies has not been reported in Norway and is considered a low risk for travellers, However, it may occur in bats.**
Safety & Security in Norway
Personal Safety
The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no safety or security problems. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur in any crowded area or tourist destination. Keep valuables secured and out of sight.
Travellers planning on high-altitude mountaineering and ski trips should be aware that avalanches after snowfalls can occur and have resulted in deaths. Mountain rescue is usually not included in travel insurance. These travellers should acquire special insurance coverage and should hire a professional guide. Avoid hiking alone and do not leave established trails.
Drivers are required to use winter tires from 1 November to 15 April. When conditions are particularly icy, studded tires or snow chains may be needed.
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.
Areas To Avoid
The presence of polar bears in the Svalbard archipelago may put your safety at high risk. Do not venture outside of the settlements without a guide and proper equipment. Nearly half of Norway’s land mass is in the Arctic Circle, and if you are travelling to remote Arctic areas in Norway, or travelling by sea in the Arctic you could be at risk.
