Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is contracted from exposure to infected surface water - most commonly after river rafting or canyoning.
Early symptoms are very similar to the flu and include headache and fever. It can vary from a very mild ailment to a
fatal disease. Diagnosis is made through blood tests and it is easily treated with Doxycycline.
Malaria
Most parts of Thailand visited by tourists, particularly city and resort areas, have minimal to no risk of malaria, and the
risk of side effects from taking antimalarial tablets is likely to outweigh the risk of getting the disease itself. If you are
travelling to high-risk rural areas (unlikely for most visitors), seek medical advice on the right medication and dosage
for you.
Malaria is caused by a parasite transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. The most significant symptom of
malaria is fever, but general symptoms such as headache, diarrhoea, cough or chills may also occur - the same symp-
toms as many other infections. A diagnosis can only be made by taking a blood sample.
Measles
This highly contagious viral infection is spread through coughing and sneezing. Measles starts with a high fever and
rash and can be complicated by pneumonia and brain disease. There is no specific treatment. Ensure you are fully vac-
cinated.
Rabies
This uniformly fatal disease is spread by the bite or lick of an infected animal - most commonly a dog or monkey. You
should seek medical advice immediately after any animal bite and commence post-exposure treatment. Having a pre-
travel vaccination means the post-bite 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
pre-vaccinated you will need to receive rabies immunoglobulin as soon as possible, followed by five shots of vaccine
over 28 days. If pre-vaccinated you need just two shots of vaccine given three days apart.
STDs
The sexually transmitted diseases most common in Thailand include herpes, warts, syphilis, gonorrhoea and
chlamydia. People carrying these diseases often have no signs of infection. Condoms will prevent gonorrhoea and
chlamydia but not warts or herpes. If after a sexual encounter you develop any rash, lumps, discharge or pain when
passing urine seek immediate medical attention. If you have been sexually active during your travels, have an STD
check on your return home.
Typhoid
This serious bacterial infection is spread through food and water. It gives a high and slowly progressive fever, severe
headache, and may be accompanied by a dry cough and stomach pain. It is diagnosed by blood tests and treated with
antibiotics. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers spending more than a week in Thailand, or travelling outside
the major cities. Be aware that vaccination is not 100% effective so you must still be careful with what you eat and
drink.
