Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information consult the Health appendix. Tick-borne encephalitis is present in forested areas of southern Germany.
Vaccination is advisable.
Prescribed medicines may, in some cases, have to be paid for. Private insurance is recommended for specialist medical treatment outside the German National Health Service, which can be very expensive. All chemists give alternative addresses of services available outside the normal opening hours. There are 350 officially recognised medical spas and watering places with modern equipment providing therapeutic treatment and recreational facilities for visitors seeking rest and relaxation. A list of the spas and health resorts and various treatments can be ordered from the German National Tourist Office, or directly from Deutscher Heilb derverband e.