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Two Surfers, Playa El Tunco, El Salvador

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El Salvador health care and vaccinations

Vaccination identifier Special precautions
Diphtheria

Sometimes
Hepatitis A

Yes
Malaria

Sometimes
Rabies

Sometimes
Tetanus

Yes
Typhoid

Yes
Yellow Fever

No*

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over six months of age coming from infected areas.
** From 1 July 2011 all foreign nationals older than six months wishing to enter El Salvador are required to produce a certificate of vaccination against measles and rubella.

Medical facilities are limited outside San Salvador. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment. Travellers are advised to carry a copy of their insurance document as hospitals may not provide treatment otherwise. State-run hospitals are basic and visitors are advised to use private clinics where possible.

Food and drink: 

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks: 

Dengue fever is reported to be on the increase. Vaccinations for tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended.

Recommended Sites:

Protect yourself from malaria
Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.
(An educational initiative organised and funded by GlaxoSmithKline Travel Health. UK/MARK/0173/10 September 2010)
Travel insurance
For residents of over 150 countries. High levels of medical, evacuation, emergency & most adventure activities covered.