Iceland

Holidays by Destination Europe Iceland Health Issues 

Health standards here are high and should you need medical help you are almost certain to find someone suitable who speaks English.

There is a pharmacy, known as an apotek, in every town. You will also find doctors, though hospitals are restricted to major centres. There are health centres in Reykjavik with GPs available throughout the day. However, you will be charged for any medical care, including ambulance service, so unless you want to pay in full you will need your E111/European Health Insurance Card, and private insurance is wise.

The one thing to bear in mind is that the country is much less developed than most of Europe, so if you did have an accident you might be a long way from help. Carrying a first aid kit is therefore a good idea.

As usual, sun can be an issue in snow and on glaciers, so think about sunglasses, and even if not hot, the sun at northerly latitudes can burn, so take sun protection. Cold dry air and wind plus dust can all be a problem for skin, so serious moisturiser is a good idea, and lip balm.

Do be aware of the possibility of hypothermia which, as well as striking intrepid hikers, can affect small children in backpacks or buggies who are not keeping themselves warm by moving. Make sure all children are properly wrapped up, including a hat (as most heat is lost from the head), decent boots (also important for walking on the uneven terrain), and good quality gloves.

Everyone needs a wind and rainproof layer - especially important for activities like dog sledding and whale watching. Through the winter months small Icelanders are often seen in salopettes and jackets. But remember to layer to allow for the warmth indoors and on buses.

This is not a country where you are nannied and you do need to take care, particularly outside the city. 10 people are taken to hospital with injuries from the hot steam vents and geyers every summer, and you should most definitely not stand downwind of them because of the heat of the steam.