Travel Health: Turkey

Essential vaccines, malaria advice, and health guidance for Turkey travellers.

Turkey

Europe / Western Asia

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for British holidaymakers, welcoming millions of UK visitors each year to its stunning coastline, historic cities like Istanbul, and the dramatic landscapes of Cappadocia. While Turkey is generally considered a safe destination, there are important health risks to prepare for — particularly around food and waterborne illness, rabies exposure, and ensuring your routine vaccinations are up to date. We recommend a travel health consultation at least 4–6 weeks before departure.

Recommended Vaccines for Turkey

Hepatitis A

Recommended for all travellers. Spread through contaminated food and water, particularly outside resort areas.

Typhoid

Recommended for travellers visiting rural areas or eating outside major hotels and restaurants.

Hepatitis B

Recommended for longer stays, frequent travellers, or those who may need medical or dental treatment.

Rabies

Consider if visiting rural areas, trekking, or likely to encounter stray dogs — very common in Turkey.

DTP Booster

Ensure your routine diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccinations are up to date.

MMR

Ensure you've had two doses of MMR — measles cases are reported in Turkey.

Malaria Risk in Turkey

There is no significant malaria risk in Turkey's main tourist areas. The WHO declared Turkey malaria-free in 2010. Antimalarial tablets are not required for travel to Turkey. However, mosquito bite prevention is still advised to protect against other mosquito-borne illnesses.

Key Health Risks

Travellers' diarrhoea — common, especially outside resort hotels. Avoid tap water and be cautious with salads and ice.
Rabies — stray dogs and cats are widespread. Avoid contact and seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched.
Extreme heat — temperatures exceed 40°C in summer. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and avoid midday sun.
Road traffic accidents — drive defensively and wear seat belts. Road standards vary outside major cities.
Leishmaniasis — sandfly-borne disease present in southeastern Turkey. Use insect repellent.
Air quality — pollution in Istanbul and Ankara can aggravate respiratory conditions.

Travel Health Tips for Turkey

1Book vaccinations at least 4–6 weeks before departure for full protection.

2Drink bottled water, especially outside major resort areas and cities.

3Pack high-SPF sunscreen and stay hydrated — heat exhaustion is a common issue for British tourists.

4Avoid contact with stray dogs and cats — rabies post-exposure treatment may not be readily available in rural areas.

5Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and repatriation.

6Carry a basic travel health kit with rehydration sachets, antihistamines, and any prescription medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What vaccines do I need for Turkey?+

We recommend Hepatitis A and ensuring your routine vaccines (DTP, MMR) are up to date. Typhoid, Hepatitis B, and Rabies may be advised depending on your itinerary and activities. A pre-travel consultation will provide personalised advice.

Do I need malaria tablets for Turkey?+

No — Turkey was declared malaria-free by the WHO in 2010. Antimalarial medication is not required.

Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?+

Tap water in Turkey is generally not recommended for drinking, even in major cities. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice from unknown sources.

Is rabies a risk in Turkey?+

Yes — stray dogs and cats are very common throughout Turkey, including tourist areas. Avoid contact with strays and consider a pre-exposure rabies vaccination if planning outdoor activities.

How far in advance should I get vaccinated for Turkey?+

Ideally 4–6 weeks before travel. However, same-day Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines can still provide protection for last-minute travellers.

Travelling to Turkey?

Book a travel health consultation and get all the vaccinations and advice you need before you go.