Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
bodia, so visitors on short trips to the most popular places do not need to take medication. Malaria self-test
kits are widely available in Cambodia, but are not that reliable.
Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills and sweating, headache, aching joints, diarrhoea and stomach
pains, usually preceded by a vague feeling of ill health. Seek medical help immediately if malaria is suspec-
ted, as, without treatment, the disease can rapidly become more serious or even fatal.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Gonorrhoea, herpes and syphilis are among these infections. Sores, blisters or a rash around the genitals and
discharges or pain when urinating are common symptoms. With some STIs, such as wart virus or
chlamydia, symptoms may be less marked or not observed at all, especially in women. Reliable condoms
are widely available throughout urban areas of Cambodia.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is a dangerous gut infection caused by contaminated water and food. Medical help must be
sought.
In its initial stages sufferers may feel they have a bad cold or flu on the way, as early symptoms are a
headache, body aches and a fever that rises a little each day until it is around 40°C (104°F) or higher. There
may also be vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation.
In the second week the high fever and slow pulse continue, and a few pink spots may appear on the body;
trembling, delirium, weakness, weight loss and dehydration may occur.
Traveller's Diarrhoea
Simple things like a change of water, food or climate can all cause a mild bout of diarrhoea, but a few
rushed toilet trips with no other symptoms are not indicative of a major problem. Almost everyone gets a
mild bout of the runs on a longer visit to Cambodia.
Dehydration is the main danger with diarrhoea, particularly in children or the elderly as it can occur quite
quickly. Under all circumstances
fluid replacement
is the most important thing to remember. Stick to a bland
diet as you recover. Commercially available oral rehydration salts are very useful; add them to boiled or
bottled water.
Gut-paralysing drugs such as Lomotil or Imodium can be used to bring relief from the symptoms of
diarrhoea, although they do not actually cure the problem. Only use these drugs if you do not have access to
toilets and
must
travel.
