World Country Guide

1
Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Tajikistan. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness; see the Health appendix for more information.

2
Vaccination against typhoid is advised.

3
Cases of malaria, predominantly in the benign vivax form, have been reported in some central, western and northern areas of Tajikistan and particularly on the southern border (Khatlon area) between June and October. Those wishing to visit the area should bring suitable medication with them. Resistance to chloroquine is suspected.

Note
Travellers planning to stay in Tajikistan more than 90 days must present a medical certificate indicating that they are HIV-free.

Food & drink
All water should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks
There is a diphtheria epidemic in Tajikistan and medical advice should be sought before travelling. Hepatitis A, B and E occur. Rare occurrences of plague have been reported. Trachoma is common, Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever, typhus, leishmaniasis, sand-fly fever, tick-borne relapsing fever, brucellosis, plague and echinococcosis all occur but risks to the traveller are low. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.

Health care
Standards of health care are low. As the domestic health service is plagued by shortages of medicines and drugs, travellers are advised to take antibiotics and any prescription medicines, contact lens solutions and a first-aid kit containing basic medicines and water treatment tablets. There is no reciprocal health agreement with the UK. Although fees for health services are low, health insurance is recommended.