Health care in Hungary

No special inoculations are needed before visiting Hungary, and there are no troublesome snakes or creepy-crawlies to worry about . Mosquitoes are a real scourge around lakes and rivers, so be armed with insect repellent (szunyogriaszto). Electric insect repellent is a good idea and can be purchased in stores and supermarkets.

One insect that can bring on more than just an itch is the forest tick (kullancs), which burrows under the sin causing inflammation and even encephalitis. You might consider getting an FSME (meningo-encephalitis) vaccination if you plan to do a lot of hiking and camping, especially between May and September.

The number of AIDS cases is relatively low in Hungary, but remember that the border has only really been open for a few years, so the number could multiply in a short time. Two AIDS hotlines operate in Budapest: (1)- 338 2419 between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. , and (1) - 338 45555 between 4 p.m. and 6 a.m.

First-aid and ambulance services are free for citizens of the UK, Scandinavian and most Eastern European countries, though follow-up treatment must be paid for.

Treatment at a public outpatient clinic (rendelo intezet) costs little, but doctors working privately sometimes charge much more. Very roughly, a consultation in a doctor’s surgery (orvosi rendelo) starts at 2000 Ft, while a home visit is from 4500 Ft.

Dental work is usually of a high standard and cheap by Western standards (at least the Austrians seem to think so, judging from the numbers who regularly cross the border to have their teeth fixed). Some dentists advertise in the English-language press.

Most large towns and Budapest’s 23 districts have an all-night pharmacy open every day, a sign on the door of any pharmacy will help you locate the closest 24-hour one.

Pharmacies open 24 hours, ambulances, emergency pone numbers.