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Taiwan Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria |
No |
| Hepatitis A |
Sometimes |
| Malaria |
No |
| Rabies |
No |
| Tetanus |
Sometimes |
| Typhoid |
No |
| Yellow Fever |
No* |
Taiwan has one of the most efficient and highly regarded healthcare systems in Asia, known for its accessibility, high standards, and relatively low costs. The island's National Health Insurance (NHI) system covers nearly all residents, but it does not extend to short-term foreign visitors, so travellers are strongly advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
Healthcare facilities in Taiwan are modern and well-equipped, particularly in cities such as Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. Hospitals and clinics are plentiful, with many offering English-language services or translation support for foreign patients. Pharmacies are widespread, well-stocked, and can often provide over-the-counter medications for minor issues without a prescription.
In the event of a medical emergency, care is readily available and generally very affordable compared to Western standards. Payment is typically required upfront for non-residents, but receipts are provided for insurance claims.
Tap water in Taiwan is safe to drink in most urban areas, and food hygiene standards are high. However, visitors with specific medical conditions or prescriptions should bring enough medication for the duration of their stay, along with a copy of the prescription and generic drug names.
Natural hazards are the main risks to be aware of. Taiwan sits on a tectonic fault line, so earthquakes do happen, though most are mild. Buildings are constructed to modern safety standards, and locals are well-versed in what to do during a quake. Typhoon season runs from June to October, and severe weather can disrupt travel, especially in coastal or mountainous areas. It's a good idea to monitor local news and weather alerts during this time.
Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever occasionally occur in southern Taiwan during warmer months. While the risk is low, visitors are advised to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves if spending time outdoors in affected areas.
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