Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hepatitis E
Transmitted through contaminated food and water and has similar symptoms to hepatitis A, but is far less
common. It is a severe problem in pregnant women and can result in the death of both mother and baby. There is cur-
rently no vaccine, and prevention is by following safe eating and drinking guidelines.
HIV
Unprotected sex is the main method of transmission.
Influenza
Can be very severe in people over the age of 65 or in those with underlying medical conditions such as heart
disease or diabetes; vaccination is recommended for these individuals. There is no specific treatment, just rest and
paracetamol.
Malaria
Uncommon in Peninsular Malaysia and antimalarial drugs are rarely recommended for travellers. However,
there may be a small risk in rural areas. Remember that malaria can be fatal. Before you travel, seek medical advice on
the right medication and dosage for you.
Rabies
A potential risk, and invariably fatal if untreated, rabies is spread by the bite or lick of an infected animal - most
commonly a dog or monkey. Pretravel vaccination means the postbite treatment is greatly simplified. If an animal bites
you, gently wash the wound with soap and water, and apply iodine-based antiseptic. If you are not prevaccinated you
will need to receive rabies immunoglobulin as soon as possible.
Typhoid
This serious bacterial infection is spread via food and water. Symptoms include high and slowly progressive
fever, headache, a dry cough and stomach pain. Vaccination, recommended for all travellers spending more than a week
in Malaysia, is not 100% effective so you must still be careful with what you eat and drink.
INSECT BITES & STINGS
Lice
Most commonly inhabit your head and pubic area. Transmission is via close contact with an infected person. Treat
with numerous applications of an antilice shampoo such as Permethrin.
Ticks
Contracted after walking in rural areas. If you are bitten and experience symptoms such as a rash at the site of the
bite or elsewhere, fever, or muscle aches, see a doctor. Doxycycline prevents tick-borne diseases.
Leeches
Found in humid rainforest areas. Don't transmit disease but their bites can be itchy for weeks afterwards and
can easily become infected. Apply an iodine-based antiseptic to any leech bite to prevent infection.
Bees or wasps
If allergic to their stings, carry an injection of adrenaline (eg an Epipen) for emergency treatment.
Jellyfish
In Malaysian waters most are not dangerous. If stung, pour vinegar onto the affected area to neutralise the
poison. Take painkillers, and seek medical advice if your condition worsens.
SKIN PROBLEMS
Fungal rashes can occur in moist areas that get less air such as the groin, armpits and between the toes. Treatment in-
volves keeping the skin dry, avoiding chafing and using an antifungal cream such as Clotrimazole or Lamisil. The
fungus
tinea versicolor
causes small, light-coloured patches, most commonly on the back, chest and shoulders. Consult
a doctor.
Immediately wash all wounds in clean water and apply antiseptic. If you develop signs of infection (increasing pain
and redness) see a doctor. Divers should be particularly careful with coral cuts as they become easily infected.
SUNBURN
Always use a strong sunscreen (at least SPF 30), and always wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses outdoors. If you
become sunburnt, one percent hydrocortisone cream applied twice daily to the burn is helpful.
