Places in Syria

Syrian Arab Republic Health Care and Vaccinations

Health insurance is recommended. Basic medical facilities exist in main cities but there are few outside them. Medical care is provided free of charge to those who cannot afford to pay.

Food and drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated and relatively safe. Bottled water is available. Drinking water outside main cities and towns is likely to be contaminated and sterilisation is considered essential. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks

Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended.

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.