Switzerland does not require any vaccines to enter if you’re traveling directly from the US.  

There are several common health conditions to consider when traveling to Switzerland. Runway can help you prepare by prescribing the medication you need before you depart, so you can worry less and explore more while you’re away.

• Altitude Sickness Medication: Many cities and traveler destinations throughout Switzerland have high altitudes, including Zurich, Valais, Lucerne, and St. Gallen among others. The starting height for most cases of altitude sickness is 8,000 ft above sea level. However, people who are more susceptible to altitude sickness can experience symptoms at elevations of 5,000 ft and above. Commonly visited destinations above 8,000 ft above sea level include Valais, Berne, Dammastock, and Titlis. Vanil Noir is just under 8000 ft above sea level. Commonly visited destinations above 5,000 feet above sea level include Wildspitz, Brienzer Rothorn, and Chasseral Ouest. Runway can prescribe altitude sickness medication, listed in the medication options above, to be brought with you as a preventative measure. We also provide chat support while you are traveling, should you have questions about your symptoms or when to take the medication.

• Motion Sickness Medication: Whether cruising by boat or traveling by car, motion sickness can ruin the journey with dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Runway can prescribe motion sickness patches or anti-nausea medication, listed in the medication options above, to alleviate queasiness during your trip and allow you to soak in the scenery.

• Sleep Aids: We’re no strangers to the perils of jet lag. This common condition, due to a disruption of the body’s natural circadian rhythm, can lead to symptoms like sleeplessness, fatigue, and digestive issues. While we recommend working to sync up your sleep-wake time to your current destination as soon as possible, Runway can also prescribe a non-habit-forming antihistamine jet lag medication to help maintain a healthy sleep routine while you travel

• Traveler’s Diarrhea Antibiotics: Traveler’s diarrhea is an intestinal infection that occurs as a result of eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Runway can prescribe anti-diarrhea antibiotics, listed in the medication options above, to pack with you in case you find yourself experiencing discomfort.

Can I carry medicines on international flights?

Medications in pill or solid form are approved for international flights. Keep them in your carry-on for convenient access. For liquid medications that exceed 3.4 ounces, you may be asked to pack them in your luggage, so plan accordingly.

Prescription medications are readily available in most cities within Switzerland, but may still require a physician visit in order to purchase. Planning in advance with Runway means you don’t have to worry about accessing what you need while traveling.

Make sure you’re up to date on any routine and recommended vaccinations weeks in advance of your trip to Switzerland. 

What shots should I have when traveling to Switzerland?

While there are no required vaccines for Switzerland for those traveling from the US, the lists below include recommended vaccines that you might need based on your personal history and trip activities.

Recommended Vaccines for Traveling to Switzerland

The list below includes the routine childhood vaccinations that are recommended for traveling to Italy. If you received vaccines as a child, you likely received the following and are ready to go:

• Chickenpox
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Measles-Mumps-Rebella (MMR)
• Polio
• Shingles
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B

Other Vaccine Considerations for Travel To Switzerland

Here is a list of additional vaccines for preventable diseases that you may want to consider based on your trip itinerary:

• COVID-19: Recommended for travelers headed to Switzerland.

• Rabies: Recommended for travelers in very specific situations– as Switzerland is free of rabid dogs. Most travelers will not need a preventative Rabies vaccination unless they plan to be handling animals (veterinary work, field biology, handling specimens in a lab). 

Proper preventative and proactive care can reduce the need to find healthcare in Switzerland. However, we recommend making a list of local doctors and hospitals near the destination you’re staying, in advance of your trip. 

It’s also strongly advised to purchase travel health insurance, as most traditional healthcare coverage doesn’t extend internationally. Fill all prescriptions prior to embarking on your trip to ensure you have enough with you for the duration of your travels plus a few extra days in case of delays.

How do I search for Swiss hospitals?

Large cities in the country boast high standards of healthcare, making it easier to research and find accredited Swiss hospitals. Also, check with where you’re staying in Switzerland as they often have hospital recommendations and information already in place. The Joint Commission International website and the U.S. Embassy can also be resources to locate healthcare organizations in or near the city where you’re staying.

What should I know about Swiss healthcare for tourists?

Travel health insurance is highly recommended and can provide you with additional information and support about costs of services, coverage, and areas of available care.

What is the average cost of hospital stay in Switzerland?

A hospital stay in Switzerland can vary in costs, especially as economic environments change. However, there is no set intake fee, so it’s best to confirm costs in advance to avoid unexpected expenses. Keep in mind, there are several factors that will contribute to the hospital cost, such as emergency services, x-rays, hospital location, and the duration of the stay.

Prevention is key. Be aware of certain high-risk areas and environments and take proper precautions for each. Take heed of destination updates with regards to weather, vaccination recommendations, and other safety advisories. If you are prone to jet lag, motion sickness, or traveler’s diarrhea get preventative medication from Runway to help keep symptoms at bay.

Are there common conditions I’m susceptible to when traveling to Switzerland?

Drastic weather changes, time zone differences, and varying levels of activity can all result in health conditions when traveling to Switzerland. Here are common ones to be aware of and prepare for to ensure an optimal trip experience.

• Heat Exhaustion: During the summer months in Switzerland (May – September), temperatures can soar in some regions, especially if you are outdoors. Pack loose, lightweight clothing that provides breathable coverage on the arms and legs. Also, stay hydrated with sealed filtered water bottles and well-nourished with salty snacks. Since the body’s salt content can be quickly depleted from excessive sweating, you may also want to take salt pills and/or electrolyte-based drinks with you along on your adventures.

• Jet Lag: Jet lag is a common condition that sets in when traveling across several time zones in a short amount of time. This disruption to the body’s circadian rhythm often leads to sleeplessness, fatigue, and digestive issues, among other symptoms. It’s best to sync up your sleep-wake schedule to your current destination as soon as possible. Also, consider medication for sleeplessness as part of your treatment plan with Runway. The non-habit-forming antihistamine will help you sleep regardless of what time zone you’re in.

Here are a few other things to be mindful of as you plan your trip.

• Stay hydrated: It’s easy to forget to hydrate while on the go – always bring along a water bottle during your daily adventures. 

• Take precautions with ticks: When hiking in Switzerland, certain areas of the country have a prominent tick population. When exploring the landscape of your destination, check your head and neck for ticks at the end of each day. Prevent Tick-borne Encephalitis, by using bug repellents with active ingredients, such as DEET and Picaridin, in high percentages for extended protection. 

• Stay alert to changing conditions: Outdoor adventuring is part of the thrill and experience of traveling in Switzerland. Since some locations are more developed than others, research and stay updated on any hazardous landscapes and changing weather conditions. Pack protective gear, including a hat, sunscreen, first aid kit, loose, lightweight layers of clothing, and plenty of water and snacks. 

• Sleeplessness: Time zone changes affect the body in different ways due to disruption to the body’s circadian rhythm. Though easily treatable, jet lag can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like sleeplessness that can affect your travel plans. Runway can prescribe non-habit forming sleep medication to take before bed so you can catch some z’s regardless of what time zone you’re in.

• Keep wild animals wild: While touching, petting, and feeding wild animals is exciting, remember that most wild animals are not comfortable interacting with humans or have been habituated into doing so for food. No matter if they are domestic pets or wild creatures, animal licks, bites, and scratches can lead to bacterial infections. Be aware of animals being used for financial gain and look into the animal welfare of any wildlife related activity. Protect these animals and yourself by keeping wild animals wild!

Prepare for every adventure with trip-saving medications from Runway.