Getting sick while traveling can be stressful — especially when you’re in a new country and unsure how the healthcare system works. But don’t worry — if you find yourself sick in Brussels, you’ll be relieved to know the city offers high-quality medical care, English-speaking doctors, and reliable services for travelers.
Whether it’s a fever, food poisoning, or an unexpected injury, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding care quickly and confidently while in Belgium’s beautiful capital.
Understanding Brussels’s Healthcare System
Belgium’s healthcare system is one of the best in Europe, combining excellent infrastructure with highly trained professionals.
Private vs. Public Healthcare
- Public hospitals provide affordable, high-quality care but often require a Belgian health insurance card or EHIC for EU visitors. Tourists from outside the EU will need to pay upfront.
- Private clinics and hospitals are ideal for travelers since they offer faster appointments, English-speaking doctors, and flexible payment options.
Emergency Medical Care
Here’s what you need to know about emergency medical care in Brussels.
Essential Emergency Numbers
- 112 – For all emergencies (ambulance, fire, or police).
How to Call an Ambulance in Brussels
Dial 112 for an ambulance. The operators speak English and will connect you with the nearest available emergency service.
When to Go to a Hospital vs. an Urgent Care Clinic
- Go to a hospital if you have a serious condition like chest pain, high fever, or an accident.
- Visit an urgent care clinic for minor ailments such as a cold, stomach upset, or dehydration.
Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know
Pharmacies in Brussels are easy to spot — look for the green cross sign.
- Opening hours: Most are open from 8:30 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Saturday.
- 24-hour pharmacies: There’s always a pharmacie de garde (on-call pharmacy) available after hours. You can find one listed at your nearest pharmacy or online.
- Over-the-counter medication: Available for colds, headaches, and stomach pain.
- Doctor’s note: Needed for stronger medication like antibiotics.
What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance
If you have travel insurance, the process of getting care in Brussels is smooth. Most clinics and hospitals can provide receipts and reports for reimbursement.
Documents You’ll Need to Submit a Claim
- Passport
- Insurance details
- Doctor’s report or note
- Receipts for all medical costs
If you’re from the EU, bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for partial coverage at public hospitals.
Language Barriers
Brussels is bilingual (French and Dutch), but English is widely spoken — especially in private hospitals and pharmacies. Still, here are a few handy phrases:
- “Je suis malade.” — I’m sick.
- “Où est l’hôpital le plus proche ?” — Where is the nearest hospital?
- “Parlez-vous anglais ?” — Do you speak English?
How to Avoid Getting Sick in Brussels
Let’s take a quick look at how you can avoid getting sick in Brussels.
Common Traveler Illnesses
- Mild colds or allergies due to changing weather.
- Food-related stomach upsets from rich Belgian dishes or new ingredients.
- Dehydration after long walking days or enjoying a few too many Belgian beers!
Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Yes — tap water in Brussels is safe to drink. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, bottled water is a good backup.
Food Safety & Hygiene Tips
- Eat at reputable restaurants and cafes.
- Don’t overindulge in heavy or unfamiliar foods all at once.
- Wash your hands often, especially before meals.
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Conditions
Brussels offers excellent maternity care and specialists for chronic conditions. If you’re pregnant or managing a condition, carry your medical records and check with your insurer about coverage before traveling.
Private hospitals such as Clinique Saint-Jean and CHIREC Delta provide top-quality care for international patients.
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Brussels
Finding an English-speaking doctor in Brussels can feel overwhelming at first — but there’s an easy way.
With Air Doctor, you can:
- Find trusted, English-speaking doctors in your area.
- Choose between in-person or online appointments.
- Receive documentation for travel insurance claims.
Getting Help Beyond Healthcare
If you need help contacting family, your insurer, or your doctor back home, your embassy or consulate can assist. They can recommend hospitals, help replace lost medication, or connect you with translators.
Recap
If you get sick in Brussels:
- Call 112 for emergencies.
- Visit a private clinic for fast, English-speaking care.
- Use pharmacies for over-the-counter meds.
- Keep your insurance documents handy.
- Use Air Doctor to find trusted care near you.
About Air Doctor
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including GPs
FAQs
Yes, but you’ll need a doctor’s note to get antibiotics from a pharmacy.
No, tourists are expected to pay for treatment unless they have valid travel insurance or an EHIC card (for EU visitors).
Yes, most doctors in private clinics and hospitals speak English and are used to treating international patients.
