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Uruguay Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria |
Sometimes |
| Hepatitis A |
Sometimes |
| Malaria |
No |
| Rabies |
Sometimes |
| Tetanus |
Yes |
| Typhoid |
Sometimes |
| Yellow Fever |
No |
Healthcare standards in Uruguay are generally good, particularly in Montevideo, where public hospitals and private clinics provide a wide range of medical services. Facilities and specialist care may be more limited in smaller towns and rural areas.
Medical and dental treatment can be expensive. Travellers should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment and repatriation, as well as access to funds in case payment is required before treatment.
Pharmacies are widely available in towns and cities, although specialist medicines may be difficult to obtain outside Montevideo. Travellers taking regular medication should bring an adequate supply, together with a copy of their prescription.
For an ambulance or other emergency assistance, call 911.
Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout Uruguay. Bottled water is widely available for visitors who dislike the taste of the local supply or are travelling somewhere where water quality is uncertain.
Food hygiene standards are generally good, and food served in established restaurants, cafés and hotels is usually safe. Milk is pasteurised, while locally produced meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally safe to consume. Normal precautions apply: ensure meat and seafood are thoroughly cooked, wash fresh produce and avoid food that has been left standing at room temperature.
Dengue and chikungunya are present in Uruguay and are transmitted by mosquitoes that bite mainly during the day. Travellers should use insect repellent, wear clothing that covers the skin and choose accommodation with screens or air conditioning where possible.
Strong sunlight and high ultraviolet levels can cause sunburn even on cooler or cloudy days. Use high-factor sunscreen, wear a hat and protective clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure around midday.
Rabies has been reported in domestic animals, while bats may also carry rabies-related viruses. Avoid contact with animals and seek urgent medical attention after any bite or scratch. Leptospirosis may be contracted through contaminated fresh water or mud, particularly after flooding, so travellers should avoid contact with floodwater.
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