Lebanon
Health
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Dial 140 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Lebanon
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Lebanon.
There have been reported cases of cholera in Lebanon. More guidance is available in TravelHealthPro’s cholera factsheet.
Medication
Medical supplies can occasionally be hard to find in country. Take any medicines you need with you to Lebanon. The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription medication you should carry a medical certificate confirming that the medication has been prescribed for a medical condition.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Lebanon
The availability and quality of medical treatment available in Lebanon has been affected by the economic crisis and fuel shortages, although the situation has stabilised for private healthcare/hospitals in Beirut.
Medical care in Lebanon can be expensive. Most medical providers and hospitals are insisting on significant cash deposits before admitting patients, including in emergency situations. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
Doctors are generally well qualified, though nursing standards vary. Most medical staff speak French and English.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Lebanon where some staff will speak English.
There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Lebanon.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.