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Country Guide > Europe > Albania | |
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Health
1 A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age arriving from or transiting countries with infected areas. 2 Immunisation against typhoid and poliomyelitis is recommended. Typhoid is more common in summer and autumn. Although the last major outbreak of poliomyelitis was in 1996, since when eradication activities have been conducted, a small risk still exists. Food & drink Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is advised, especially outside Tirana, and should be used for cleaning teeth, washing food, making ice and, of course, drinking. Drinking water outside main cities and towns is likely to be contaminated and sterilisation is considered essential. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are under the control of sanitary/hygiene authorities and are generally considered safe to eat. Avoid cooked food offered by street traders unless you are sure it is freshly prepared and piping hot. Other risks Immunisation against hepatitis A and B and tetanus is recommended. Campers and trekkers should avoid tick bites and consider immunisation against tick-borne encephalitis, which has been reported in the north. Long-term visitors should consider immunisation against diphtheria and check their BCG status. Rabies is present. Albania has a particularly large number of stray dogs. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten abroad seek medical advice without delay. For more information, see the Health appendix. Health care Medical facilities are extremely basic (including accident and emergency) and there is a lack of supplies and doctors. It is not advised that visitors use the dental facilities available. If taking prescribed drugs, the visitor should bring a supply. There are no reciprocal agreements with the UK or USA. However, foreign travellers will be excluded from payment for emergency medical treatment and first aid. International travellers are strongly advised to take out full medical insurance before departure. |