Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hepatitis B
This disease is common in China and is transmitted via infected body fluids, including
through sexual contact. The long-term consequences can include liver cancer and cir-
rhosis.
HIV & Sexually Transmitted Infections
The Chinese government is taking HIV seriously, and overall HIV prevalence is low in
the country. However, among certain high risk groups - gay men, sex workers, people
who inject drugs - prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections is compar-
atively high, reaching 20% among some groups in some areas. Consistently using con-
doms during any sexual encounter is an effective way to protect yourself from becoming
infected and you should obviously never share needles.
If you have engaged in any risky behaviour while travelling, including unprotected sex
or injecting drugs, you should get a check-up immediately. You can do this at most major
Chinese hospitals or at any Centre for Disease Control (jíkòng zhōngxīn). There's one in
every district of the city, including this one just off Nanluogu Xiang:
Dōngchéng Disease
Prevention & Control Centre
( Dōngchéng Jíkòng Zhōngxīn;
6404 0807; 5 Beibingmasi Huton, off
Nanluoguxiang)
.
For up-to-date information on HIV in China, visit the website of
UNAIDS China
Influenza
Flu is common in Běijīng in winter. This virus gives you high fevers, body aches and gen-
eral symptoms, such as a cough, runny nose and sore throat. Antibiotics won't help unless
you develop a complication, such as pneumonia. Anyone travelling in winter could think
about vaccination, but it is particularly recommended for the elderly or those with under-
lying medical conditions.
Traveller's Diarrhoea
This is the most common problem faced by travellers in Asia. Most traveller's diarrhoea is
caused by bacteria and thus responds rapidly to a short course of appropriate antibiotics.
How soon you treat your diarrhoea will depend on individual circumstances, but it is a
good idea to carry treatment in your medical kit.
