What are the health risks in Malta? Is it safe and where are the places with the highest crime rates?
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Health risks
There are no health risks to worry about in Malta. There are similar rules and practices (regarding health risks) as elsewhere in the EU.
Diving and snorkelling can be dangerous in bad weather, due to Malta's rugged and reef-like coastline. Unless you are a very experienced swimmer, never venture further out to sea and always stay in the smaller bays.
Health care and possible treatment
Malta is considered a very advanced country with highly developed and superior healthcare. In a global survey, Malta was ranked 10th on a scale of the safest places in the world. Every EU citizen is entitled to free treatment in government-funded hospitals and clinics on presentation of an insurance card.
All tourists should note that treatment on presentation of an insurance card only covers essential expenses and in the event of more serious injuries it is better to take out travel insurance from your insurance company beforehand.
Drinking water
Mains water is safe, but it is desalinated water from the sea. We recommend drinking bottled water, which is commonly available in local shops.
Dangerous animals
The occurrence of dangerous animals in Malta is very rare indeed. None of the three species of snakes that live here are venomous, so pretty much the only mainland animal hazards for tourists are stray dogs and cats. Rabies, moreover, does not occur in Malta.
Of the stray animals, cats are significantly more prevalent, while stray dogs are more rarely encountered.
As far as the sea is concerned, sharks, for example, can only be seen sporadically and especially at greater depths, so tourists need not worry too much about them. The danger of injury for divers is more likely to occur when they come into contact with sea urchins and similar spiny animals.
Compulsory vaccinations
No vaccinations are required for Malta, it is a standard developed European country with no tropical diseases.
Crime
Malta is a very safe destination, serious crimes are quite rare here. Nevertheless, especially in tourist areas, pickpockets can never be ruled out, especially on the beaches or on buses. However, the risk is significantly lower than in other European countries.
The various 'tourist traps' in the form of inflated prices or unfair information about the final price are not widespread in Malta. For example, taxis, which have a poor reputation in many parts of the world, are completely fair to tourists in Malta and fraudulent behaviour is very rare.
Important contacts
When in Malta, you should know the following telephone numbers.
- European Universal First Aid Number: 112
- Fire Brigade: 199
- Ambulance service: 196
- Police: 191
The international telephone code for Malta is +356.