Jordan Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Tetanus | Sometimes |
| Typhoid | Sometimes |
| Yellow Fever | No* |
| Rabies | Sometimes |
| Malaria | No |
| Hepatitis A | Sometimes |
| Diphtheria | Sometimes |
* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age coming from infected areas.
Health Care
Healthcare in Jordan is generally of a good standard, particularly in major cities such as Amman and in tourist areas. The country has a mix of public and private hospitals, with private facilities offering higher standards of comfort, shorter waiting times, and wider availability of English-speaking staff. Many doctors are trained abroad, and medical services in private hospitals are often comparable to those in Europe or North America.
Pharmacies are widespread and easy to find in cities and towns, and many operate long hours, with some open late or 24 hours in larger urban areas. Pharmacists are well-trained and can often provide advice for minor ailments. A wide range of medicines is available without prescription, including pain relief, cold remedies, and some antibiotics, though brand names may differ from those used at home.
Visitors who rely on prescription medication should bring an adequate supply for the duration of their stay, along with a copy of the prescription or a doctor's letter, particularly for controlled medicines. While many prescription drugs can be purchased locally, availability is not guaranteed, and formulations may vary.
Travel insurance is strongly advised, as treatment in private hospitals can be expensive and payment is usually required upfront. Emergency medical services are available, but response times can vary outside major cities. For serious or complex treatment, Amman is the best-equipped location in the country, and many travellers choose to seek care there if needed.
Overall, healthcare in Jordan is reliable for most routine and emergency needs, but visitors should plan ahead, carry appropriate insurance, and be prepared to pay for services at the point of care.
Food and Drink
Tap water in Jordan is generally treated and safe for local use, but most visitors choose not to drink it. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive, and it is the recommended option for drinking and brushing teeth, particularly outside major hotels. In some areas, water shortages can affect supply quality, and mineral content may be high, which can upset sensitive stomachs.
When it comes to food, dairy products served in established restaurants, hotels, and supermarkets are generally safe, as they are pasteurised and subject to health regulations. Visitors should be more cautious with unpasteurised milk or homemade dairy products offered in rural areas. Food hygiene in reputable eateries is usually good, but travellers are advised to eat freshly prepared food, avoid raw or undercooked meat, and peel fruit themselves where possible. As with many destinations, choosing busy restaurants and cafés is a reliable way to minimise the risk of stomach upsets.
Other Risks
Jordan is generally considered one of the safer countries to visit in the Middle East, but visitors should still be aware of a few practical risks and considerations.
Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in busy areas, markets, and public transport hubs in larger cities. Violent crime against tourists is rare, but normal precautions such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding poorly lit areas at night are advisable.
Jordan's climate also presents risks, particularly extreme heat in summer. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sun exposure are common issues for visitors who underestimate temperatures, especially at desert sites such as Wadi Rum or Petra. Sudden flash floods can occur in wadis and low-lying areas after heavy rainfall, mainly during the winter months, and visitors should always heed local advice and weather warnings.
While Jordan is politically stable, it borders several countries affected by conflict. Travellers should avoid border regions unless travelling on major routes and stay informed about local conditions.
