Indonesia Health Care and Vaccinations

Health Care

There is a risk of Zika Virus transmission in Indonesia, so it is recommended that you take meticulous anti-mosquito bite measures throughout the trip. Pregnant women are advised to consider postponing non-essential travel.

Health insurance to include emergency repatriation cover is strongly advised. Adequate routine medical care is available in all major cities, but emergency services are generally inadequate outside major cities. The best public hospitals are found in Jakarta, where the ratio of medical staff to the general population is much higher and clinics catering specifically to foreigners can be found. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payments before any treatment is given, so it is advised that you have travel insurance before travelling to Indonesia. The number for medical emergencies is 119; for ambulance services call 118. Although the cost of medical care in Indonesia remains cheap by international standards, medication can be expensive. Avoid small, local pharmacies, which can sell you out-of-date or poorly stored medication.

Food and Drink

Drinking bottled water is advised as Indonesia's tap water is not safe to drink. It is also recommended to avoid unpasteurised milk or dairy products. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other Risks

Vaccinations for tuberculosis, meningitis and Japanese B encephalitis are sometimes recommended. There is a real risk of heatstroke; visitors to Indonesia should avoid the midday sun, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and apply sun cream. Travellers should also take care to acclimatise slowly when travelling to high-altitude areas to avoid altitude sickness.