Health in Italy: vaccines, water, medical care and insurance

No vaccines are required for entry to Italy. Keep your routine immunisations up‑to‑date and consider Hepatitis A and B if you’ll eat street food or stay long‑term. Tap water is potable in cities and most towns. Purchase travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation.

The Italian Ministry of Health follows WHO guidelines. Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, varicella) should be current. Hepatitis A is advised for most travellers because the virus spreads via food and water, though tap water is generally safe. Hepatitis B is recommended for those who may have medical procedures, tattoos, or sexual contact with locals. Seasonal influenza vaccine is useful in winter months (Nov–Mar).

If you have a chronic condition, immunosuppression, or are pregnant, consult your doctor before travel.

Municipal tap water meets EU standards and is safe to drink in all regions, including Rome, Florence, Venice and smaller towns. In rural mountain huts, verify that water is from a treated source; otherwise use bottled water.

Food hygiene is high in restaurants; street vendors in tourist areas also follow regulations. Use fresh‑cut fruit you peel yourself if you are cautious.

Public hospitals provide high‑quality care but may require cash payment up front for non‑EU citizens. Private clinics accept credit cards and often have English‑speaking staff. Emergency services (112) are free.

Travel insurance should cover hospitalisation, prescription medication, and medical evacuation. Check that the policy includes COVID‑19 coverage if you are not fully vaccinated.

EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for state‑provided care; other nationals need private insurance.

Pharmacies (farmacia) are marked with a green cross and can dispense many prescription medicines without a doctor’s note for short courses.