Travel smart to Turkey with health and immunisation in mind

Why health planning matters for travel

Travelling to Turkey can be a rich and rewarding experience, whether for holidays, work, study, or visiting family. Thoughtful health preparation supports a smoother journey and helps reduce avoidable illness or disruption. Most travel health considerations relate to routine immunisation status, food and water hygiene, insect exposure, and access to healthcare rather than rare or extreme risks. A practical, well-planned approach allows you to enjoy your trip with confidence.

Common illnesses travellers may encounter

In a country with busy cities, extensive domestic travel, and high tourist numbers, common respiratory and gastrointestinal infections circulate throughout the year. Colds, influenza, COVID-19, and viral gastroenteritis account for most travel-related illness. Exposure risk increases in airports, public transport, markets, accommodation, and popular attractions, particularly during peak travel seasons. Most infections are mild, but prevention remains worthwhile.

Immunisation and routine protection

Before travel, ensuring your routine vaccinations are up to date is an important preventive step. This typically includes protection against measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, influenza, and COVID-19.
For many travellers, additional vaccines such as hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended due to potential exposure through food and water. Hepatitis B may be advised for longer stays or situations involving potential blood or bodily fluid exposure.
Rabies vaccination is usually considered only for long-term travellers or those spending time in rural areas, cycling, trekking, or working with animals. Malaria risk is low and geographically limited to specific south-eastern regions during warmer months. Your GP can advise whether preventative medication is relevant based on your itinerary.

Food, water, and everyday hygiene

Food culture is central to travel in Turkey, but changes in diet and hygiene standards can affect digestion. Drinking bottled or boiled water, avoiding ice from uncertain sources, choosing freshly cooked food, and maintaining regular hand hygiene help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal illness. Extra caution is advised with homemade or unusually cheap alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol contamination.

Insects, animals, and environmental considerations

Mosquito-borne illnesses occur in parts of Turkey, particularly during warmer months. Using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in insect-protected accommodation reduce exposure.
Avoid contact with stray dogs and wild animals, and seek medical advice promptly after any bite or scratch. Contact with poultry or wild birds should also be avoided to reduce infection risk.

Medical care, insurance, and preparation

Medical facilities in major cities are generally of a good standard, while services may be limited in rural areas. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation is essential. If travelling for elective medical procedures, confirm that your insurance policy provides appropriate cover. Carry sufficient personal medications in original packaging, along with copies of prescriptions.

When to speak with your GP before travel

A GP or travel-health appointment six to eight weeks before departure allows personalised advice based on your health history, medications, immunisation status, and itinerary. This discussion focuses on preparation rather than restriction and supports safe, informed travel.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.