Pakistan
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 1122 and ask for an ambulance.
Response time varies, particularly between urban and rural areas. In remote or mountainous regions it could take over an hour due to poor road access and limited ambulance availability.
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 vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Pakistan guide
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
Polio vaccination programme
Pakistan is rolling out a widespread polio vaccination programme in an effort to eradicate polio. You should provide proof of polio vaccination if asked by a vaccination team. Any exemption due to a medical condition needs to be supported by a medical certificate issued by recognised health authority.
Altitude sickness
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Bottled water
Take care when buying bottled water and follow advice on TravelHealthPro.
Air Pollution
Air pollution is a health hazard in Pakistan, especially during the winter months from October to February. Punjab is one of the worst affected regions, particularly Lahore.
Read about the risks of poor outdoor air quality on TravelHealthPro.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
There are often shortages of medicine in Pakistan. Some imported goods, including medical supplies, may also be restricted. Make sure to plan for this and keep a good supply of any medicine and medical supplies you need.
If you run out of medicine, get advice from a local pharmacy. Some pharmacies, particularly in cities and hospitals, are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If your usual medicine is not available or you need a prescription:
- visit a local doctor
- speak to your UK doctor for advice on alternative medicines that may be available
Healthcare in Pakistan
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Pakistan where some staff will speak English.
The standard of local medical facilities is lower than in the UK, especially in remote areas. Private medical care is expensive but available in all major cities. Specialised treatment for psychiatric illnesses may not be available outside major cities.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.