Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
Air pollution
Air pollution, particularly vehicle pollution, is a problem in all urban areas, in-
cluding many smaller cities. Avoid downtown during busy hours. Air is much better in the
early morning, at night and after rain. Much of the west coast, however, is also affected by
Taiwan's many coal-fired plants.
Insect bites & stings
Insects are not a major issue in Taiwan, though there are some
insect-borne diseases present such as scrub typhus and dengue fever.
Ticks
Ticks can be contracted from walking in rural areas, and are commonly found be-
hind the ears, on the belly and in armpits. If you have had a tick bite and experience
symptoms such as a rash at the site of the bite or elsewhere, or fever or muscle aches,
see a doctor.
WOMEN'S HEALTH
In most developed areas of Taiwan, supplies of sanitary products are readily available.
Birth-control options may be limited so bring supplies of your own contraception.
Taiwan's heat and humidity can contribute to thrush.
TRADITIONAL & FOLK MEDICINE
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) remains very popular in Taiwan. TCM views the hu-
man body as an energy system in which the basic substances of
chi (qì;
vital energy),
jing
(essence), blood (the body's nourishing fluids) and body fluids (other organic fluids) func-
tion. The concept of Yin and Yang is fundamental to the system. Disharmony between Yin
and Yang or within the basic substances may be a result of internal causes (emotions),
external causes (climatic conditions) or miscellaneous causes (work, exercise, sex etc).
Treatment modalities include acupuncture, massage, herbs, dietary modification and
qi-
jong
(the skill of attracting positive energy) and aim to bring these elements back into bal-
ance. These therapies are particularly useful for treating chronic diseases and are gaining
interest and respect in the Western medical system. Conditions that can be particularly
suitable for traditional methods include chronic fatigue, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome
and some chronic skin conditions.
Be aware that 'natural' doesn't always mean 'safe', and there can be drug interactions
between herbal medicines and Western medicines. If you are using both systems, inform
both practitioners what the other has prescribed.
Insurance
A travel-insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is a good idea. There
are a wide variety of policies available, so check the small print.
