Main health risks for Iraq

Diseases transmitted by insects or animals

Iraq's current political situation does not allow us to have updated data on all sanitary risks linked to that destination.

The country's health situation and hygiene conditions make it a potentially risky destination for travelers.

The whole country is malarial and the risk is particularly high in northern Iraq; strains are not resistant to chloroquine (zone 1).

Cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis occur in the country. This disease, which cause skin sores, is transmitted by infected sand flies.

The country has been hit by the avian flu epizootic. In 2006, three cases of human contamination were reported (2 deaths). Since then, no new case has been reported.

There are cases of animal rabies in the country.

Diseases transmitted by food, water or through the environment

Iraq's current political situation does not allow us to have updated data on all sanitary risks linked to that destination.

Cholera outbreaks may occur at any time in the country. Cases have been reported in 2007 in Kurdistan and around Kirkuk. Between August and September 2008, 341 cases (including 5 deaths) had been reported. Nine provinces have been affected, with Babil accounting for the majority of cases, followed by Baghdad and Kerbala. Other provinces in which cholera cases have been reported include Anbar, Basra, Diala, Diwanyia, Misan and Najaf.

Due to various risks, travelers are advised not to bathe in fresh waters (lake, rivers) and should not walk bare-foot.

Diseases transmitted by contact with infected people

Iraq's current political situation does not allow us to have updated data on all sanitary risks linked to that destination.

Tuberculosis is frequent in the country.