Mains water is not drinkable and should be boiled or filtered. Bottled water is available. Drinking water outside main cities and towns may be contaminated and sterilisation is advisable. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Vaccination against hepatitis B is advised for visitors on long-term stays who have regular contact with the local population.

Treatment at public hospitals is free, though private facilities are of a much higher standard. The best-equipped hospitals are located in Caracas and the state capitals. Health insurance is recommended though not mandatory. 24-hour pharmacies are recognizable by a red-lit sign labelled ‘turno'.