Jordan Travel Health

Travel Health

Recommended vaccinations for travel to Jordan are Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, and Tetanus and depending on the season and region visited Rabies Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and Typhoid are sometimes recommended. For travellers over one year of age coming from infected areas of Yellow Fever, a vaccination certificate will be required.

When traveling throughout the country it is advised to only drink bottled water and pasteurised milk and be especially careful with food and water in rural areas. Always make sure any meat and fish are well cooked and avoid raw vegetables and fruit that has been already peeled.

There are clinics in many villages throughout the country that are quite basic however there are excellent hospitals in the larger towns and cities. In the capital Amman most high quality medical services are private and cash payment is expected in advance. It is strongly recommended to take out full comprehensive insurance before traveling to Jordan.

Jordan is a very safe country except at the Iraqi border. The biggest risk to your health in Jordan is being involved in a road traffic accident. The country is one of the most liberal nations in the region with women able to wear regular clothing with modest clothing only required in religious and old historical sites.

However Jordan is a Muslim nation and there are certain western norms that are not accepted in the country. Such norms include public displays of affection and homosexuality are not acceptable and adultery is actually illegal and can carry a jail term. Generally however Jordan is a very safe country to visit and travel around as long as travelers are careful and confident about their personal security arrangements throughout their visit.

There have been a number of attempted and successful terrorist attacks so extra care should be taken particularly at the borders with Israel and Iraq and when using Jordanian service taxis to cross into neighbouring countries. Take care to avoid demonstrations which could turn hostile, and be particularly vigilant in public places.

Petty crime is a concern, particularly in downtown and wealthier parts of Amman. Always be careful when using ATMs. Avoid walking alone after dark and in isolated places particularly women. Jordan has a high accident road toll due to hazardous roads and unlit vehicles at night. Avoid driving at night and always exert caution.

Emergency phone numbers for Jordan are: Police 191; Fire Brigade and Ambulance 199.

We strongly advise that all Australian travellers check the latest travel advice on the Australian Government Smart Traveller site.