Foreign travel advice

Uruguay

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

Call 911 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:

See what health risks you’ll face in Uruguay, including:

  • dengue
  • strong sun with high UV levels

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.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition and take regular prescribed medication, take enough for your visit. You can find most medication in pharmacies in large cities, but medicine for complex treatment may be unavailable in smaller towns.

You will need a prescription from a local doctor to get prescribed medication. All medication in pharmacies, whether prescribed or not, is stored behind the counter and must be asked for.

Healthcare in Uruguay

Medical and dental treatment is expensive in Uruguay. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of medical treatment and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Uruguay where some staff will speak English. 

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Uruguay.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.