India - Health

India Health for Visitors

There are some very good, skilled medical professionals in India. Good hospitals are typically found in major cities.

Cochin has its fair share of clinics, dentists, and specialist healthcare professionals. Prices are very economical and in the main first world standard. However, some places like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai have state-of-the-art medical facilities, but at a cost.

Many hospitals require patients (even emergency cases) to buy necessities such as medicines, plaster casts and vaccines, and to pay for X-rays, before procedures are carried out.

Pharmacies can usually advise on minor medical problems and most medications are available without a prescription, but always check the sell-by date.

Travel insurance is recommended.

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:

Vaccination for Cholera, Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B are recommended for travelers going to India.

Other vaccinations to consider are Japanese Encephalitis and rabies.

For Yellow Fever vaccination requirements, see the Indian Ministry of Health & Family Welfare website.

Food and Water Concerns:

Water must be treated everywhere.

Drinking tap water in India is not recommended. The general advice is to stick to bottled water instead.

Another tasty and hydrating option is to sip from fresh young coconuts, which are widely available and reasonably priced.

Leptospirosis - Avoid contaminated water and soil.

Mosquito-borne Diseases:

Malaria risk is present throughout the year. The CDC recommends that travelers visiting certain areas of India take malaria-prevention medication.

There is a risk of dengue fever, chikungunya, and zika virus in India so take all precautions against mosquito bites.

Because of the pregnancy risks, travelers should consult the CDC Travelers’ Health website for the most current recommendations for Zika.

Prevention:

• Use a repellent containing 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin. Re-apply according to the manufacturer's directions.
• Wear neutral-colored (beige, light grey) long-sleeved clothing.
• Pre-soak or spray the outer layer of clothing and gear with permethrin.
• Ensure that the hatch and window screens work properly.

Other Diseases:
Animals:

Rabid dogs are common in India, which has the highest global rabies rate. Consider rabies vaccination if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers should take precautions to avoid being bitten by snakes, especially if they are visiting rural areas. They should wear sturdy shoes or boots and carry a flashlight when going outside at night.

Tuberculosis - Avoid sick people to prevent breathing in TB bacteria that are in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Emergency Numbers:
See Emergencies.

List of hospitals in Delhi

24 hours medical stores (Delhi)

Useful links:

• Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Last updated:  February 2024