Tap water

Water quality varies throughout Laos. Drink only bottled or properly treated water to avoid waterborne illnesses. Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from safe water.

Pollution

Air quality can be poor in urban areas and during burning seasons. Those with respiratory conditions should take extra precautions and consider bringing appropriate medication.

Insect-borne illnesses

Mosquito-borne diseases including dengue fever, malaria, and Zika virus are present in Laos. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk), and sleep under mosquito nets when possible.

Avian Influenza

Human cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in Laos. Avoid contact with poultry and birds, particularly in rural areas and markets.

Anthrax

There have been outbreaks of anthrax in Southern Laos (Champasak province). Avoid dead animals or carcasses.

Rabies

Dogs throughout Laos carry rabies. Take care when dealing with any animal in Laos, particularly stray dogs.

Fast Cover's medical benefits

Fast Cover’s international travel insurance policies include:

• overseas 24/7 emergency medical assistance,

• overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses,

• overseas emergency dental, and

• overseas emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

to help cover you if you become unexpectedly injured or sick while in Laos.*

Travel insurance for existing medical conditions

If you have an existing medical condition, Fast Cover may be able to provide some cover.* You’ll need to complete a medical screening process online or call our Aussie based sales team. To find out more about our medical screening process, and how the policy will apply in relation to an existing medical condition, please read and consider the PDS for eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits that apply.

Check Laos's medication regulations

Contact the Lao Ministry of Health or the nearest Lao embassy to verify which medications are permitted and whether you need special documentation.

Obtain a permit for restricted medications

Some medications, particularly controlled substances, may require special permits. Apply for these well in advance of your travel dates.

Carry documentation

Always travel with original prescriptions, doctor's letters explaining your medical condition, and any permits or approvals obtained from Laos authorities.

Travel limits

Only carry the amount of medication you need for your trip duration, plus a small extra supply in case of delays. Large quantities may raise suspicions at customs.