Pakistan Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Diphtheria | Yes |
| Malaria | Yes |
| Rabies | Sometimes |
| Tetanus | Yes |
| Typhoid | Yes |
| Yellow Fever | No* |
* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if travelling from countries where yellow fever is a risk or have spent more than 12 hours transiting through an airport in such countries.
Health Care
Healthcare in Pakistan varies widely in quality, accessibility, and infrastructure, depending on the location. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad have private hospitals and clinics that offer reasonable healthcare services, often catering to expatriates and tourists. These facilities may provide competent care for routine medical needs or minor emergencies, but they can be expensive, and upfront payment is often required.
In rural or remote areas, healthcare facilities are often limited with few specialists available. Emergency medical services may also be delayed in these regions, so travellers should plan accordingly, particularly if venturing into mountainous or less accessible parts of the country.
Tourists are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as serious illnesses or injuries may require transportation to a major city or even out of the country.
Food and Drink
In Pakistan, tap water is not considered safe for drinking, especially for tourists unaccustomed to local waterborne bacteria and contaminants. Buy reputable brands of bottled water or carry a portable water purifier or water purification tablets during your trip.
Avoid raw salads unless you are confident about the water used to wash them. Stick to packaged dairy products and avoid unpasteurised milk. Yoghurt (dahi) is a staple and generally safe when freshly made, but always confirm its source to ensure it has been prepared hygienically.
Other Risks
Visitors exploring Pakistan's high-altitude regions, such as the Karakoram Range, Hunza Valley, or Skardu, should be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. This condition can occur when ascending above 2,500 metres (8,200 feet), with symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. To prevent it, acclimatise gradually by ascending slowly, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately and seek medical attention. Travellers venturing into higher altitudes, such as the Khunjerab Pass, should plan carefully and consider carrying medication like acetazolamide for prevention.
