Mains water is normally chlorinated but bottled water is available and advised. Local meat, poultry, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Vaccination is sometimes recommended for tick-borne encephalitis. Travellers staying longer than three months may be required to produce proof of HIV-negative status.

The standard of medical care in Moldova is below that available in some other European countries. Non Russian/Romanian speakers may encounter difficulties in a medical emergency. The embassy (see Contact Addresses) has details of English-speaking doctors.

A number of large medical institutions operate in Chisinau, including the Republican Clinical Hospital. Elderly travellers and those with existing health problems may be at risk owing to inadequate medical facilities.

There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK for urgent medical treatment. Otherwise, all services and prescriptions are charged for and doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment; medical insurance is strongly recommended.