Bulgaria poses few health risks and there are no vaccinations required for entry. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are, however, always recommended for travellers, and a typhoid vaccination is recommended for travellers who may be eating and drinking outside of hotels and restaurants and travelling off the beaten track. Similarly, a rabies vaccination is always recommended for travellers who will be spending a lot of time outdoors or who will be exposed to animals and have any risk of animal bites. Travellers to Bulgaria are not at risk of contracting bird flu, although close contact with caged, wild and domestic birds should be avoided and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked as a precaution. Medical treatment can be expensive and payment is expected immediately. Facilities in local hospitals are basic and specialised treatment or equipment may not be freely available. Medical insurance, with provision for emergency evacuation, is therefore vital. Travellers from the UK should also hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in case of emergency medical treatment.

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Swine flu