* Vaccination advised for those at high risk or visiting rural areas.

Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause abdominal upsets; bottled water is available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Hepatitis C and tuberculosis occur and hepatitis B is endemic. Stray dogs may carry the tick-borne African typhus disease and rabies is also present. If bitten, seek medical advice without delay. There have been confirmed outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) in the Danube Delta, Transylvania and Bucharest. The Romanian authorities have taken measures to contain the outbreaks and no human infections or deaths have been reported.

Medical facilities in Romania are poor and there is a serious shortage of basic medical supplies and qualified personnel. European travellers carrying the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are entitled to free or reduced cost medical care. Nationals of countries who do not have a reciprocal health agreement with Romania are expected to pay immediate cash for health services. Health insurance is strongly advised.