Middle East and North Africa

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in the UAE (source UAE Ministry of Health).  You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Ministry of Health website at: www.moh.gov.ae/en. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 5. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice.  There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

The National Committee for Combating Swine Flu is responsible for the UAE's response to the current situation. They work closely with the Ministry of Health and other interested bodies.

The Ministry of Health have advised that the UAE has adequate stocks of Tamiflu. Tamiflu can be bought locally at pharmacies.

Contrary to recent media reports the UAE Ministry of Health has not introduced a requirement for expats to provide medical reports when re-entering the country after the summer break. However, recent statements suggest that if a passenger appears to be suffering from flu-like symptoms, presenting a medical certificate which states what illness they are suffering from and the medications prescribed will help speed up airport procedures.
 

You should be aware that a new Health Insurance law has been implemented and affects all travellers to Abu Dhabi.  You should also be aware that if you require medical treatment you will have to cover the cost of any medical fees incurred.

 

Healthcare facilities in the UAE are generally comparable with those of the UK, but visitors may be prevented from using them without travel insurance or without the means to settle any charges incurred themselves. For more information on carrying UK medicines in the UAE, please see the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

 

You should seek medical advice before travelling to the UAE and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

 

For more general health information see Travel Health.