Morocco Travel Health

Travel Health

Vaccinations recommended for travel to Morocco are Hepatitis A and Tetanus. Diphtheria, Rabies and Typhoid may be required depending on the season and region visited and Tuberculosis and Hepatitis B are sometimes recommended.

Avoid uncooked vegetables and fruit that you cannot peel and food that is not prepared when you order it such as buffets. Fried and boiled foods are generally safe and it is advised to only drink bottled water. Be careful of ice or cordials that may be made from tap water. Milk is unpasteurised so ensure to boil it before drinking. Most produce is grown organically without chemical pesticides or fertilisers. Malaria is present in the northern coastal areas of Morocco so take precautions against being bitten such as light coloured clothing and using insect repellent.

Leishmaniasis is a potentially deadly disease that can be contracted from the bite of the sandfly. Although the incidences of infection in travellers is not common there is a risk of contracting the disease if bitten by infected sandflies whilst travelling in Morocco. Symptoms can take weeks or months to show and can include (but are not limited to) nodules or small bumps that turn into sores over time and can become ulcerous. Other symptoms include swollen glands, fever, weight loss and abnormal blood tests. Sandflies are most active between dusk and dawn so the best way to avoid infection is to limit any outdoor activities during these times, to wear long sleeves and pants if the climate allows for it, and to always wear insecticide, both during the day and at night. It's recommended to use insecticides containing N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, commonly referred to as DEET. If you suspect you have any symptoms of Leishmaniasis it's recommended to consult your doctor and tell them about your concerns and where you have travelled and when.

Good medical facilities are available in all main cities together with emergency pharmacies and clinics in major hotels outside normal opening hours. Government hospitals provide free or minimal charge emergency treatment. Most ordinary prescription and over the counter medicines are widely available.

There is a high threat from terrorism in Morocco and attacks could be indiscriminate particularly in places frequented by tourists and expatriates. Western Sahara is a disputed territory and developments in the region may trigger public unrest particularly after Friday prayers. It is advised to avoid large gatherings and demonstrations which could turn hostile and be especially cautious in public places. In the Western Sahara there are thousands of unexploded mines and travellers should avoid driving off road in all areas and even main roads in remote areas.

Morocco has a poor road safety record and accidents are frequent especially on busy major routes such as the main road from Agadir to Marrakesh via Imi’n Tanoute and Chichaoua.

Travellers should use common sense at all times in Morocco. Avoid dark alleys, travel in a group whenever possible and keep money and important documents in a safe place. Women should always dress conservatively in respect for the Moroccan culture and ignore any verbal harassment from men. Aggressive panhandling, purse snatching, pick pocketing, harassment of women and theft from occupied vehicles stopped in traffic are the most frequently reported crimes. Taxis and trains are generally safe however city buses are not. Avoid carrying large sums of money and be especially alert when using ATM machines.

Emergency numbers for Morocco are: Police 19, Fire and Ambulance 15, Highway Emergency Service 177, Information 160, International Information 120.

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