Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
All your children's routine vaccinations should be up to date, as many of the common
childhood diseases that have been eliminated in the West are still present in parts of
Borneo. A travel-health clinic can advise you on specific vaccines, but think seriously
about rabies vaccination if you're visiting rural areas or travelling for more than a month,
as children are more vulnerable to severe animal bites.
Children are more prone to getting serious forms of mosquito-borne diseases such as
malaria, Japanese B encephalitis and dengue fever. In particular, malaria is very serious in
children and can rapidly lead to death - think seriously before taking your child into a
malaria risk area. Permethrin-impregnated clothing is safe to use, and insect repellents
should contain between 10% and 20% DEET.
Diarrhoea can cause rapid dehydration and you should pay particular attention to keep-
ing your child well hydrated. The best antibiotic for children with diarrhoea is Azithromy-
cin.
Women's Health
In urban areas, supplies of sanitary products are readily available. Birth-control options
may be limited, so bring adequate supplies.