🦠 Infectious Disease in Georgia

Infectious Diseases in Georgia

The Infectious Diseases indicator measures the risk and prevalence of communicable diseases – from hepatitis to tuberculosis to vector-borne conditions. With a score of 86/100, a raw value of 14 (IHME composite index), and world rank 69 out of 231, Georgia is well-positioned by European standards, even though specific risks are known.

Hepatitis C: A Known Special Topic

Georgia was historically known for an above-average Hepatitis C prevalence (estimates up to 7–8% of the population, WHO 2015). Since 2015, Georgia has been conducting the world's first national Hepatitis C elimination programme, supported by the CDC and offering free DAA (direct-acting antiviral) treatment. Prevalence has since declined significantly. For expats, this is not a relevant risk with a normal lifestyle; blood-borne transmission routes (outdated medical equipment, drug use) were the historical primary vectors.

Tuberculosis

Georgia has a higher TB incidence than Western Europe (approx. 55–60 cases per 100,000 inhabitants; comparison: the United Kingdom <10). Drug-resistant TB strains occur. For most expats in urban areas, the risk is low; it is higher with close contact to vulnerable groups (prison populations, homeless).

Near-Eastern Infectious Diseases

While tropical diseases (malaria, dengue) present no relevant risk in Georgia, there is a minimal residual malaria risk in certain regions (Colchic lowlands, Batumi surroundings); standard vaccinations and malaria protection are only relevant for travellers in specific regions.

Vaccinations

Standard vaccinations (Hepatitis A+B, tetanus, measles) are recommended. Georgia's vaccination programme follows WHO standards.

Comparison

• Singapore (95), Canada (95), United Kingdom (95), Estonia (95): Virtually no infection risk
• Georgia (86): Good, but historically Hepatitis C was a larger concern
• Armenia (87), Ukraine (88): Similar level
• Turkey (84), Thailand (75): Slightly higher risks

Conclusion: 86/100 for infectious diseases is a good result. Hepatitis C as a historical speciality has been substantially defused by the elimination programme; for expats with a normal lifestyle, the infection risk in Georgia is low and comparable to Eastern Europe.

This article was created on April 13, 2026