Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Dengue Fever
This mosquito-borne disease is increasingly problematic in Thailand, especially in the cities. As there is no vaccine it
can only be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites. The mosquito that carries dengue is a daytime biter, so use insect-
avoidance measures at all times. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache (especially behind the eyes), nausea and
body aches (dengue was previously known as 'breakbone fever'). Some people develop a rash (which can be very itchy)
and experience diarrhoea. Chiang Mai and the southern islands are particularly high-risk areas. There is no specific
treatment, just rest and paracetamol - do not take aspirin or ibuprofen as they increase the risk of haemorrhaging. See a
doctor to be diagnosed and monitored.
Dengue can progress to the more severe and life-threatening dengue haemorrhagic fever; however this is very uncom-
mon in tourists. The risk of this increases substantially if you have previously been infected with dengue and are then in-
fected with a different serotype.
MOSQUITO AVOIDANCE TIPS
Travellers are advised to prevent mosquito bites by taking these steps:
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use a DEET-containing insect repellent on exposed skin
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sleep under a mosquito net, ideally impregnated with Permethrin
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choose accommodation with screens and fans
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impregnate clothing with Permethrin in high-risk areas
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wear long sleeves and trousers in light colours
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use mosquito coils
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spray your room with insect repellent before going out
Hepatitis A
The risk in Bangkok is decreasing but there is still significant risk in most of the country. This food- and waterborne vir-
us infects the liver, causing jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), nausea and lethargy. There is no specific treatment for hep-
atitis A. In rare instances, it can be fatal for those over the age of 40. All travellers to Thailand should be vaccinated
against hepatitis A.
Hepatitis B
The only sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be prevented by vaccination, hepatitis B is spread by body fluids.
In some parts of Thailand up to 20% of the population are carriers of hepatitis B, and are usually unaware of this. The
long-term consequences can include liver cancer, cirrhosis and death.
HIV
HIV is now one of the most common causes of death in people under the age of 50 in Thailand. Always practise safe
sex; avoid getting tattoos or using unclean syringes.
