Greenland - Health

Greenland is a remote country with a limited health system. There is usually one hospital in all towns, and in the settlements a nursing clinic. In the event of acute illness, treatment is free of charge in Greenland. For practical information about hospitals in Greenland, see here.

Rules governing health care provision for temporary residents in Greenland, please see the Visit Greenland website.

The Greenland Ministry of Health advises that you take a comprehensive health travel insurance policy that covers all aspects of ill health, including sudden onset of disease emergencies, hospital admission, therapy, medication, dental care and home transportation. Make sure that your insurance policy also covers ambulance transportation from sparsely populated or desolate areas in Greenland.

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:

Aside from routine vaccines, the CDC recommends vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B, measles and rabies.

Mosquitos:

There are mosquitoes and midges (small black flies) in the summer months, approximately from June to August. When the first night frost appears they disappear. Greenland’s coast is big, and the night frost happens sooner in some places than others, depending on where you are.

A head-net is essential if ashore during the summer (especially July) to prevent the clouds of mosquitoes, midges and mini-flies getting into eyes, noses and ears. Such nets are widely sold in Greenland.

Bite Prevention:
Use a repellent containing 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin. Re-apply according to manufacturer's directions.
Wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) long-sleeved clothing.
Pre-soak or spray outer layer clothing and gear with permethrin.
Ensure that hatch and window screens work properly.

Prescription Drugs:

It is recommended that visitors bring their own medicine and any other medication that is used regularly, as special products are not always available.

Emergency Numbers:

Use 112 in case of an accident.