Pakistan
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.
Emergency medical number
Dial 1122 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Pakistan guide
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
Polio vaccination programme
Pakistan is rolling out a widespread Polio vaccination programme in an effort to eradicate Polio. You should provide proof of Polio vaccination if asked by a vaccination team. Any exemption due to a medical condition needs to be supported by a medical certificate issued by recognised health authority
Altitude sickness
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Bottled water
Take care when buying bottled water and follow advice on TravelHealthPro. A recent Pakistan government report on bottled water found that a number of bottled water brands were contaminated.
Medication
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.
Medical supplies may be difficult to find in Pakistan due to restrictions on imported goods.
Healthcare in Pakistan
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Pakistan where some staff will speak English.
The standard of local medical facilities is lower than in the UK, especially in remote areas. Private medical care is expensive but available in all major cities. Specialised treatment for psychiatric illnesses may not be available outside major cities.
COVID-19 healthcare in Pakistan
Contact the COVID-19 helpline on 1166 if you have symptoms.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.