Cape Town and the Western Cape have very few health issues to be concerned about. No inoculations are needed and the health infrastructure is of a good standard. South Africa is facing a crisis with HIV/AIDS and visitors are advised to take precautions.

Water

High quality water is available everywhere in Cape Town and the Western Cape and tap water is safe to drink. Many local manufacturers produce bottled water from sources around the Western Cape’s mountain ranges. Hikers drinking water from streams maybe at risk of waterborne diseases. Though the water in most mountain streams is safe to drink, it is advisable to purify the water first or to drink bottled water.

Health Tips

Cape Town and the Western Cape are malaria-free, and no vaccinations are required for cholera or smallpox. If you are on chronic medication, please keep a prescription or part of the packaging showing the generic name. If you wear spectacles, ensure you have a copy of your lens prescriptions. You can have spectacles replaced by any optician. Opticians offer great service at value for money prices.

Medical Services

Medical services are of a very high standard in Cape Town and the surrounding areas. In the event of an emergency, use one of the major private clinics. You may contact the police on 10111 for directions to the nearest hospital. You may also contact the ambulance services on 10177. Many doctors do house calls and are listed under Medical in the telephone directory.