Health and Safety in Turkey

Turkey’s healthcare system is not up to desired standards, particularly in the state hospitals, even though it has improved in recent years. Private hospitals are comparatively well-staffed and equipped with facilities but are concentrated in larger cities and towns.

Malaria is a major health risk in Turkey. Mosquitoes are a menace especially along the coastal region so it is necessary to take every precaution to avoid mosquito bites in endemic areas.

Turkey is not known for its safety standards so don’t be surprised by open manholes, pot-holed roads, careless drivers and heated quarrels. Be prepared against pickpockets and thieves. The laws against insulting, defaming or making light of Atatürk, the Turkish flag, the Turkish people, the Turkish Republic etc are taken very seriously so avoid making any potentially inflammatory statements.