Although a large portion of Australia lies in the tropics, tropical diseases such as malaria and yellow fever are unheard of, and diseases caused by unsanitary conditions, such as cholera and typhoid, are virtually unknown. Cases of animal diseases like rabies and foot-and-mouth disease have yet to be recorded.

Travel health depends on your preparations prior to departure. Few visitors experience more than an upset stomach during their stay in Australia.

Approximately 2% to 5% of the doctors in Sydney are trained abroad. There are numerous private and public hospitals within the city and its suburbs.

Sydney is considered one of the most populated states in Australia. It has a huge car population, and air pollution from cars is high. Asthmatic visitors are advised to take cautionary measures. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately depending on the season of their visit.

It is generally safe to eat at any local restaurant or cafe since the local health department is very strict with food preparation practices within the city. There are few roadside vendors in Australia. Authorities are known to conduct random inspections to ensure sanitation and health regulations are met. Tap water is safe to drink.

To avoid any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), the usual measures apply. Visitors are advised to use contraceptives to reduce the risk of contracting any diseases. Sydney's notorious Kings Cross district -- a cocktail of strip joints, prostitution, crime, and drugs -- is popular with tourists and locals alike. STDs and AIDS are prevalent in this area.