Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Snakes
Though snake bites are rare for travellers, there are over 85 species of venomous snakes in Thailand. Always wear
boots and long pants if walking in an area that may have snakes. First aid in the event of a snake bite involves 'pressure
immobilisation' using an elastic bandage firmly wrapped around the affected limb, starting at the hand or foot (depend-
ing on the limb bitten) and working up towards the chest. The bandage should not be so tight that the circulation is cut
off, and the fingers or toes should be kept free so the circulation can be checked. Immobilise the limb with a splint and
carry the victim to medical attention. It is very important that the victim stays immobile. Do not use tourniquets or try
to suck the venom out.
The Thai Red Cross produces antivenom for many of the poisonous snakes in Thailand.
Sunburn
Even on a cloudy day sunburn can occur rapidly. Use a strong sunscreen (at least factor 30), making sure to reapply
after a swim, and always wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses outdoors. Avoid lying in the sun when the sun is at
its highest in the sky (10am to 2pm). If you become sunburnt stay out of the sun until you have recovered, apply cool
compresses and take painkillers for the discomfort. One per cent hydrocortisone cream applied twice daily is also help-
ful.
Travelling with Children
Thailand is relatively safe for children from a health point of view. A medical kit designed specifically for children
may include paracetamol or Tylenol syrup for fevers, an antihistamine, itch cream, first-aid supplies, nappy-rash treat-
ment, sunscreen and insect repellent. It's a good idea to carry a general antibiotic (best used under medical supervision)
- Azithromycin is an ideal paediatric formula used to treat bacterial diarrhoea, as well as ear, chest and throat infec-
tions.
Good resources are the Lonely Planet publication
Travel with Children;
for those spending longer away Jane
Wilson-Howarth's book
Your Child's Health Abroad
is excellent.
Women's Health
Pregnant women should receive specialised advice before travelling. The ideal time to travel is in the second trimester
(16 and 28 weeks), when pregnancy-related risks are at their lowest. Most of all, ensure travel insurance covers all
pregnancy-related possibilities, including premature labour.
Traveller's diarrhoea can quickly lead to dehydration and result in inadequate blood flow to the placenta. Many of
the drugs used to treat various diarrhoea bugs are not recommended in pregnancy. Azithromycin is considered safe.
In Thailand's urban areas, supplies of sanitary products are readily available. Your personal birth-control option may
not be available so bring adequate supplies. Heat, humidity and antibiotics can all contribute to thrush. Treatment of
thrush is with antifungal creams and pessaries such as Clotrimazole. A practical alternative is one tablet of fluconazole
(Diflucan). Urinary-tract infections can be precipitated by dehydration or long bus journeys without toilet stops; bring
suitable antibiotics for treatment.
