North Korea
Health
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for North Korea
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in North Korea.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of North Korea. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Japanese encephalitis occurs, especially during the summer.
Cholera also occurs and all water is a potential health risk. You should drink and use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Tuberculosis is also common.
Medication
Basic medication including antibiotics is sometimes unavailable in North Korea.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in North Korea
Health facilities in North Korea are poor. Standards of clinical hygiene in hospitals are low. Anaesthetics are sometimes unavailable.
Evacuation is likely to be necessary for serious illness or injury. Avoid surgery if at all possible. Facilities for dental treatment are also poor.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.