Sri Lanka has one of the most effective health systems among developing nations. Sri Lanka is proud to say that it has one of the best hygiene records in South Asia. Treatments are free at government hospitals and dispensaries, and 24-hour free treatments are also available at Colombo National Hospital. However, the service is considered better in private hospitals which have their own emergency services. There are plenty of hospitals and doctors with international standards in most cities and almost all of them speak English.
Traditional medicine (ayurveda) is an important part of the health system in Sri Lanka. Ayurveda is a health system that has been practiced in Sri Lanka and India for ages. It relies solely on natural medicine.
The diseases such as Dengue fever and Malaria are mostly seasonal and transmitted by a specific mosquito species. Because prevention is better than cure, it is advisable to protect yourself against mosquitoes to cut down the risks considerably. These mosquitoes commonly bite between dusk and dawn and long-sleeved clothing and long trousers are little help when going out at night.
Before you travel to Sri Lanka, check your polio, tetanus, typhoid, Hepatitus A, anti-malaria immunization and medication with your local GP. If you need to buy some Anti biotics, diarrhoea tablets, antiseptic cream or insect sting relief you can always get them form a local pharmacy over the counter without a prescription.
It is also advised to drink only bottled mineral water unless you are sure that the water is safe. Normally water in Sri Lanka is safe to drink.
