Ireland health and safety
Ireland is a relatively safe country, with few major health risks for travellers. However, terrorist activity is still unpredictable in certain areas, and petty crime and muggings are fairly common. Although no inoculations are officially required for visits to the country, tourists still need to take precautions against general travellers’ diseases.
Healthcare and medical facilities are of an exceptionally high standard in Ireland, and the country has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK. The country’s cold climate increases susceptibility to strains of influenza, and visitors should avoid drinking tap water, or fruits and vegetables washed in tap water, to diminish chances of being affected by traveller’s diarrhoea.
Terrorist activity has decreased significantly since the signing of the 1998 Good Friday agreement, and although attacks are still a minor safety threat, travellers are almost never targeted. Muggings and pickpocketings are common, and visitors should avoid wearing ostentatious jewellery, wearing revealing clothing, or walking alone at night.
Current advisory warnings about health and safety in Ireland
British foreign office - Ireland webpage
Up-to-date and reliable advice on health and security issues in Ireland.
www.fco.gov.uk
MD Travel Health - Ireland advice
Comprehensive medical advice on disease and health risks, precautions and remedies.
http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
VHI Healthcare
Detailed health information pertaining to Ireland, including aspects of travel health.
http://www.vhi.ie/travel/index.jsp
More topics on this site…
Ireland travel information
Ireland travel tips
Ireland maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Not needed by citizens of most countries for visits of less than 90 days. Check with your embassy for confirmation.
Season: April to October
Money: Euro
Language: Gaelic and English
Emergency #:122 or 999