Indonesia Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Yellow Fever | No*** |
| Diphtheria | Yes |
| Rabies | Sometimes** |
| Hepatitis A and B | Yes |
| Tetanus | Yes |
| Typhoid | Yes |
| Malaria | Sometimes* |
* The risk of malaria varies according to area - check before travel.
** There is a risk of rabies throughout Indonesia, in particular in Bali.
**A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas.
Health Care
Zika virus is a risk in Indonesia. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should not travel to Indonesia. All travelers should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to Zika virus during and after the trip.
Health insurance to include emergency repatriation cover is strongly advised. Adequate routine medical care is available in all major cities, but emergency services are generally inadequate outside major cities. The best public hospitals are found in Jakarta, where the ratio of medical staff to general population is much higher and clinics catering specifically to foreigners can be found. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payments before any treatment is given, so it is advised that you have travel insurance before travelling to Indonesia. The number for medical emergencies is 119; for ambulance services call 118. Although medical costs are relatively cheap, drugs can be expensive.
Food and Drink
Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Drinking bottled water is advised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other Risks
Vaccinations for tuberculosis, meningitis and Japanese B encephalitis are sometimes recommended. There is a real risk of heatstroke; visitors to Indonesia should avoid the midday sun, remember to drink lots of water and apply sun cream. Travellers should also take care to acclimatise slowly when travelling to high-altitude areas, to avoid altitude sickness.
