If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water. Swimming pools which are well-chlorinated and maintained are safe. Hepatitis B is endemic and hepatitis A also occurs.
Visceral leishmaniasis is common in central Iraq.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis is reported. Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever has been reported. Tick-borne relapsing fever may occur. Health insurance including emergency repatriation cover is essential. Basic modern medical care and medicines may not be available.