Tajikistan Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Malaria | No |
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Diphtheria | Sometimes |
| Tetanus | Sometimes |
| Rabies | Sometimes |
| Yellow Fever | No |
| Typhoid | Yes |
Health Care
Hospitals and clinics in Dushanbe offer the best level of care available in Tajikistan, but services and equipment may still fall short of what visitors from Western countries expect. In regional towns and rural areas, medical facilities are basic and specialised treatment is often unavailable.
Pharmacies are common in cities and towns and stock a range of basic medications, though availability can be inconsistent. Brand-name medicines may be difficult to find, and labelling or instructions are usually in Tajik or Russian.
Foreign prescriptions are not always recognised, and finding exact equivalents locally can be difficult. Travellers should carry medications in their original packaging along with a doctor's letter stating the generic names. Some medicines may be restricted, so checking regulations before travel is advisable.
English is not widely spoken by medical staff, particularly outside private clinics or major hospitals. Payment for treatment is often required upfront and usually in cash.
Given these limitations, comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Food and Drink
Tap water in Tajikistan is generally not considered safe for visitors to drink. Even in major cities such as Dushanbe, travellers are advised to avoid drinking tap water and to use bottled or properly treated water instead, including for brushing teeth. Bottled water is widely available in shops and hotels and is the safest option throughout the country.
Milk is not always pasteurised, particularly outside larger hotels and supermarkets. Visitors with sensitive stomachs are advised to consume dairy products only in reputable restaurants or hotels.
Food hygiene standards vary, especially in rural areas. Freshly cooked food served hot is generally safer than food that has been left standing. Fruit should be washed with bottled water or peeled, and visitors are advised to avoid undercooked meat and unpasteurised products, particularly during the warmer months.
Other Risks
Natural hazards pose one of the main risks. Earthquakes occur periodically, and landslides, rockfall, and avalanches can affect roads, especially in the Pamirs and Fan Mountains. Seasonal flooding may also disrupt travel in spring. Visitors should monitor local conditions and allow flexibility in itineraries.
Petty crime is relatively low, but basic precautions should be taken, especially in busy markets or transport hubs. Visitors should carry identification at all times and be mindful that interactions with officials can be formal.