Iraq Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Diphtheria | Yes |
| Rabies | Sometimes |
| Malaria | Sometimes |
| Tetanus | Yes |
| Yellow Fever | No* |
| Typhoid | Yes |
* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas.
Health Care
Iraq's health system has suffered from years of neglect and war. Only limited facilities are available and evacuation by air ambulance may be required; therefore, insurance should have provision for this. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services.
Food and 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 unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other Risks
Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present: avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Diarrhoeal diseases are common. Vaccinations are sometimes advised for tuberculosis and hepatitis B.
Certificate
Baghdad requires those staying for longer than ten days to take a test in a state laboratory. It could refuse entry or deport anyone found to be HIV positive, including diplomats.
