Ways to Handle Cold Sores in Paris

A Tourist’s Guide to Medical Care in Paris

Online Consultations:

Great for minor but urgent issues that don’t need a physical exam, such as cold sores or related symptoms.

With Doctorsa you can connect with an English-speaking doctor via video call in just a few minutes, get medical advice and, if appropriate, receive an e-prescription that can be used at any pharmacy. No need to worry about office hours or holidays. Clear and upfront pricing: consultations start at €20, so tourists in Paris needing treatment for cold sores can access affordable healthcare without surprises. Insurances accepted but not required.

Learn more about cold sores treatment online.

Hospitals in Paris

For serious, potentially life-threatening issues that require immediate, specialized treatment, like breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, or head injuries. Non-urgent visits use up resources needed for emergency patients. ERs are for serious, life-threatening issues. Going there for something like cold sores adds to doctors’ workload and may take time away from those in critical need.

Important: The information provided here about hospitals is for general reference only. We recommend verifying current details, such as contact information, services, and hours of operation, before visiting. Please reach out directly to the hospital or consult their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Hospitals with Emergency Rooms in Paris

Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière
Address: 47-83 Boulevard de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
Access: A major public hospital with a 24-hour emergency department. Walk-in patients are accepted, and ambulances can be contacted via the French emergency number 15 (SAMU). The hospital provides comprehensive emergency care including trauma, internal medicine, and specialized surgical services.

Hôpital Lariboisière
Address: 2 Rue Ambroise Paré, 75010 Paris, France
Access: This public hospital offers 24/7 emergency services. Walk-in patients are welcome, and ambulance services are coordinated through SAMU (15). It manages a wide range of emergencies including trauma, cardiac, and pediatric cases.

Polyclinique de l’Alliance
Address: Paris, France
Access: A private hospital with a 24-hour emergency department. Walk-in patients and ambulance arrivals are accepted. The clinic offers urgent care for medical, surgical, and trauma emergencies, with the ability to refer patients to specialized centers if necessary.

Walk-in clinics

Best for minor conditions needing same-day, in-person specialist attention—like X-rays for sprains or cuts that may need stitches, injections, advanced diagnostics, or other invasive procedures.

Pharmacies in Paris, France

In Paris, pharmacies are called pharmacie in French. They are identifiable by the illuminated green cross symbol and signs displaying the word “pharmacie.” Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, particularly near hospitals, metro stations, and major streets, catering to both residents and tourists.

Antibiotic Policy in Paris

In Paris, antibiotics can only be dispensed with a prescription from a licensed doctor. Pharmacists are not permitted to sell antibiotics over the counter.

Emergency Number in Paris, France

In Paris, you can reach emergency services by dialing 15 for medical emergencies/ambulance, 17 for police, and 18 for fire and rescue services. Additionally, 112 is the Europe-wide emergency number accessible from any phone. These numbers are toll-free and operate 24/7.

Operators primarily speak French, with limited English assistance in tourist areas. When calling, provide your exact location and a clear description of the emergency to ensure prompt response.

Please remember: Emergency numbers are for life-threatening situations. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues, telehealth services like Doctorsa can connect you quickly to a licensed English-speaking doctor.