2 May 2008

UEFA Championship League final in Moscow – advice for travellers

On 21 May 2008, the UEFA Championship League final will be held at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russian Federation.

Detailed information on travel requirements, safety and security for football fans travelling to Moscow can be found on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website. There are specific visa and passport requirements for entry into the Russian Federation.

Advice for travellers

Travel insurance

A Reciprocal Health Care Agreement exists between the United Kingdom and the Russian Federation. This entitles British nationals to free emergency health care in Russian state hospitals. However, any medical treatment may be limited. All travellers are therefore advised to take comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to travel.

Food and waterborne diseases

Traveller’s diarrhoea may be a risk when visiting the Russian Federation. Taking simple precautions can reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea and other food and waterborne diseases such as hepatitis A. In particular, avoid drinking tap water and instead use bottled water which is readily available in Moscow. Football fans travelling to Moscow may wish to consider hepatitis A vaccination.

Other health risks

Sexually transmitted infections are a risk throughout the world. Infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C can also be transmitted by contact with infected blood.

• Avoid having sex with new partners, or use a condom. It is a good idea to take condoms with you.
• Do not have any tattoos or body piercings unless you are certain the equipment used is sterile.
• Be aware that alcohol consumption can lower inhibitions therefore try to limit your alcohol intake.

Detailed information on other health risks for travellers to the Russian Federation can be found on the NaTHNaC Country Information Page.

Links

FCO Champions League final - advice for travelling fans

NaTHNaC Country Information Page Russia

NaTHNaC Health Information Sheet on Prevention of food- and water-borne diseases

NaTHNaC Health Information Sheet on HIV and sexually transmitted infections

Department of Health Travel Safe – Reducing the risk of getting a blood borne infection when you’re abroad