Netherlands Health Care and Vaccinations

Health Care

Travel insurance is advised for all visitors. In some medical cases, if you are European, you might be able to receive free treatment if you can show proof of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) obtained in your country of origin.

The overall standards of healthcare in the Netherlands are excellent. Hospitals and surgeries are well equipped and staff are proficient. In pharmacies, over-the-counter advice is given and standard medicines are sold.

Food and Drink

According to Oxfam, The Netherlands is the best country in the world for having the most plentiful, nutritious, healthy and affordable diet. Suffice to say, then, travellers couldn't be in a better place as far as food quality and hygiene is concerned. As in most developed nations, tap water in The Netherlands is safe to drink.

Other Risks

People visiting The Netherlands have a low risk of contracting diseases, but medical professionals advise travellers to make sure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations before every trip.

Hepatitis A and B are present around the world and can be transmitted through contaminated food, sexual contact and contaminated needles. Speak to your doctor to see if vaccinations are right for you. Rabies is present in bats in The Netherlands, but is not found in dogs. If you are planning to go caving in The Netherlands or work with bats, it may be worth having a rabies vaccination.

Perhaps the biggest health risk in The Netherlands is that of sunburn. It might not always feel hot during the summer months, but the UV rays are still strong - be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and make sure you stay hydrated.