Health, vaccinations and medical care in Maldives

Health, insurance and where to be treated

• Vaccinations and diseases: Only yellow-fever vaccination is mandatory, and only when arriving from an endemic area. Standard travel vaccinations are recommended (hepatitis A and B, tetanus, typhoid). Mosquito-borne dengue fever occurs year-round, so repellents with a high DEET content are essential. No malaria cases have been recorded in recent years (unverified).
• Drinking water: Tap water on all islands comes from desalination plants and is not drinkable. Drinking it causes severe intestinal problems. Use only bottled water for drinking and hygiene (including brushing teeth).
• Medical facilities for foreigners:
• ADK Hospital (Malé): The largest and best-equipped private hospital in the capital, with a 24/7 emergency department, modern cardiology, orthopedics and intensive care.
• Tree Top Hospital (Hulhumalé): A top private hospital of European standard, close to the airport, offering the full spectrum of care including an emergency department. The reception phone number is +960 335 1610.
• Travel insurance: The Maldives does not require insurance as an entry condition. A solid policy covering medical costs and repatriation is nonetheless absolutely essential - evacuation from outer atolls to Malé hospitals by seaplane or speedboat is extremely expensive and will not happen without a payment guarantee.