Estonia

Estonia

Use Normal Level of Caution

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.

Currency EUR: Euro
Language Estonian. Russian is also widely spoken.
Capital Tallinn
Recent Alerts 3
Latest Alert July 20, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Estonia (20 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Estonia. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

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.

Hepatitis B

There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Estonia.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is found in Estonia from April through October. Most cases occur in Saaremaa, along the Finnish Gulf coast in Harjumaa and Western Virumaa and in Parnumaa and Eastern Virumaa counties. The highest risk occurs from exposure to ticks during camping and hiking in forested areas.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis occurs in Estonia, particularly in Saaremaa, along the Finnish Gulf coast in Harjumaa and Western Virumaa and in Parnumaa and Eastern Virumaa counties during the warmer months, most often in early and late summer when ticks are most active.

Rabies

The UK National Travel Health Network and Centre notes that rabies may be present in bats, but not in domestic or wild animals. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that rabies may be present rarely in dogs.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis occurs in this country. Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the health care field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Estonia.

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.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

Travellers who plan to visit this country during the summer months and hike or camp in rural or forested areas that provide a habitat for the ticks that carry the virus should consider obtaining this vaccine. This vaccine is only available in Europe.

Rabies Vaccine

Those travellers who may have contact with bats are at higher risk and should consider the vaccination against rabies.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Estonia.

None required.

Safety and Security in Estonia

Emergency Numbers

112

Report any theft in person to Tallinn Central Police Station, Kolde pst 65, 10321 Tallinn, telephone: +372 612 5400.

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.

Drinking in public is illegal in Estonia, and fines may apply. The legal limit for alcohol when driving is zero. Those found over the limit could be fined and imprisoned.

Anyone walking on the road at night or at times of inadequate visibility is required to wear a safety reflector. Failing to do so could result in a fine.

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 marriage remains illegal.

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