How to Minimize Health Risks in Thailand

Thailand is a generally safe country to visit. For the average Western tourist there is very little health risks to worry about.

However, before you travel it is always wise to know in advance what the potential health risks are so that you can use preventive measures.

Before you travel you should always take your own supply of non-prescription, though if you forget there are varies pharmacies available in the streets.

If you decide to travel to the more secluded areas of Thailand it’s recommended that you stock up with a food first aid kit that will contain Western medicine to keep you healthy and pain free.

If you do get sick Boots the British pharmacy chain, runs a 24 hour helpline for health related issues in the large towns of Thailand.

If you are unfortunate to have to go into hospital then you’ll find the hospitals are pretty good. The doctors usually speak fairly good English. In Bangkok there are some very good hospitals. And all the provincial towns would have had at least one hospital. In case there is an emergency, you should ask the hotel or resort that you’re staying at for advice and if need be ask for transport to the nearest hospital.

If there is a major health crisis, you should contact your embassy and also your travel insurance company immediately.

There is no need for any special vaccinations to enter into Thailand. However, before leaving for Thailand, you should always consult your doctor at least four weeks before your trip. Your doctor will have the latest information and might advise you to have immunizations for: tetanus, polio, rabies, typhoid, tuberculosis and hepatitis.

If you visit Thailand during the rainy season you’ll find that the mosquitoes are widespread. And mosquitoes can spread malaria and dengue fever. So it’s best to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes if at all possible. You should spray yourself and your clothes with mosquito repellent frequently. If you forget to pack the mosquito repellent you’ll find that most shops and stores in Thailand stock this.

Also it’s advisable to sleep under a mosquito net that is sprayed with mosquito repellent. You should also have mosquito screens on the windows.

You’ll find that hotels and resorts in tourist spots always provide mosquito screens and mosquito nets. Make sure that you check for any holes.

If you are travelling of track it’s recommended that you buy a mosquito net in one of the big cities.

You can also use plug in insecticide vaporizer, insect sprays and mosquito coils which are all easily available in Thailand.