Post-Flood Health Warning (Feb 2026)
Health & Medical Guide
Vaccinations, disease prevention, hospitals & emergency contacts
Recommended Vaccinations
Consult your doctor 6-8 weeks before travel for personalized advice
Hepatitis A
Spread through contaminated food and water
Hepatitis B
For longer stays or medical work
Typhoid
Especially for rural areas and adventurous eating
Japanese Encephalitis
If staying in rural areas during monsoon
Rabies
If planning wildlife activities or remote travel
Yellow Fever
arriving from a country with Yellow Fever risk
Common Health Concerns
Dengue Fever
Mosquito-borne viral infection. Most common during and after monsoon seasons.
Prevention Tips
- Use DEET-based mosquito repellent
- Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk
- Stay in accommodations with screens or AC
- Remove standing water near your accommodation
Heat-Related Illness
Tropical climate with high humidity can cause heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Prevention Tips
- Drink plenty of water (3-4 liters/day)
- Avoid midday sun (11am-3pm)
- Wear light, breathable clothing
- Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces
Traveler's Diarrhea
Caused by bacteria in contaminated food or water.
Prevention Tips
- Drink only bottled or boiled water
- Avoid ice from unknown sources
- Eat freshly cooked, hot food
- Peel fruits yourself; avoid raw vegetables
Major Hospitals
Nawaloka Hospital
Colombo - 24/7 emergency services
Lanka Hospitals
Colombo - International standard care
Durdans Hospital
Colombo - Multi-specialty hospital
Asiri Hospital
Colombo - Multiple branches island-wide
National Hospital
Colombo - Largest government hospital
Pharmacy Tips
- Pharmacies are called 'Osusala' in Sinhala
- Most common medications available without prescription
- Bring prescription for any controlled medications
- Major chains: State Pharmaceuticals (SPC), Healthguard
- 24-hour pharmacies available in major cities
Travel Insurance Essentials
- Medical evacuation coverage is essential
- Ensure coverage for adventure activities (trekking, water sports)
- Keep digital and printed copies of policy
- Save emergency assistance number in phone
- Check if pre-existing conditions are covered
Emergency Contacts
Ambulance / Emergency
1990Police
119Fire & Rescue
110Tourist Police
1912Accident Service (Colombo)
+94 11 269 1111