Georgia Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria | Sometimes |
| Hepatitis A | Sometimes |
| Malaria | No |
| Rabies | Sometimes |
| Tetanus | Sometimes |
| Typhoid | Sometimes |
| Yellow Fever | No |
Health Care
Healthcare in Georgia is generally adequate for routine medical needs, particularly in major cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi, where private clinics and hospitals offer a good standard of care. Facilities in rural or remote mountain regions are more limited, so travellers planning activities outside urban areas should take this into account and ensure they have appropriate travel insurance.
Private healthcare is widely used by visitors and locals alike, as it tends to offer shorter waiting times and English-speaking staff. Consultation fees and treatments are usually paid out of pocket at the time of service, and costs are relatively affordable compared with many Western countries. It is strongly recommended that visitors have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation if necessary.
Pharmacies are common in towns and cities and are easy to identify by green crosses. Many medicines that require a prescription in other countries can be purchased over the counter in Georgia, though the availability of specific brands may vary. Travellers who rely on prescription medication should bring an adequate supply along with a copy of their prescription or a doctor's letter.
Emergency medical services are available nationwide by dialling 112, which connects to ambulance, police, and fire services. Response times are generally good in urban areas but may be slower in rural regions. Visitors with existing medical conditions should carry relevant documentation and consider identifying suitable medical facilities in advance of travel.
Food and Drink
Tap water in Georgia is generally safe to drink in major cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi, where municipal water supplies are treated and monitored. However, many locals and visitors prefer bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. In rural areas and mountain regions, tap water quality can vary, so bottled or filtered water is recommended.
Georgian cuisine makes frequent use of dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt, and sour cream. These are usually safe to consume when purchased from established restaurants, cafés, or reputable shops. Visitors should be more cautious with unpasteurised dairy products sold at roadside stalls or informal markets, particularly in hot weather. As with travel anywhere, it is advisable to eat freshly prepared food, wash fruit before consumption, and practise good hand hygiene.
Other Risks
Georgia is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low levels of violent crime. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, may occur in busy areas, markets, and public transport, particularly in larger cities, so normal precautions should be taken. Road safety can be a concern, as driving standards may be unpredictable and livestock may be present on rural roads.
In mountain regions, weather conditions can change rapidly, and risks include landslides, avalanches in winter, and poor mobile coverage in remote areas. Visitors planning hiking or winter sports should check local conditions, use reputable guides where appropriate, and carry suitable equipment. Political demonstrations occasionally take place in city centres; they are usually peaceful but should be avoided if possible.