World Country Guide

1
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over one year of age if arriving within six days of leaving/transiting infected areas.

2
Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Papua New Guinea. However, cholera is a risk in this country and precautions are advisable. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness; see the Health appendix for further details.

3
Vaccination against typhoid is advised.

4
Malaria risk exists all year throughout the country below 1800m (5760ft). The predominant falciparum strain is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine and resistant to sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine.

Food & drink
All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks
Hepatitis A and B are endemic. Dengue fever and typhoid fever can occur in epidemics. Japanese encephalitis occurs sporadically. Poisonous fish and sea snakes are a hazard to bathers.

Health care
The main hospitals are Port Moresby General (Papuan region), Goroka Base (Highlands) and Angau Memorial. Visitors can use any of the private doctors or public consultation clinics. Doctors and hospitals are not free and often expect immediate payment for medical services. Hospitals are poorly equipped and sudden shortages of common medications can sometimes occur; travellers who may need ongoing or routine medical treatment are advised to obtain visas for Australia, where medical facilities are more reliable, before leaving their country of origin. Dental care outside the main centres is limited, but pharmacies in the major centres are well stocked. There is no reciprocal health agreement with the UK. Health insurance is essential and must include evacuation facilities.