Beaches, rice fields and mega cities in one trip

Diarrheal diseases

A large number of people who travel to Southeast Asia will experience diarrheal diseases at some point during their journey. The main cause of this is contaminated water or food. Usually the flora of our intestine is in balance, but any sudden contact with foreign bacteria can disturb this balance. What follows is a disruption of our natural resorption abilities, causing diarrhea.

In most cases, this type of travel diarrhea is harmless. People who are affected should make sure to sufficiently balance out their water and electrolyte levels. The symptoms will usually wear off after a few days. In the case of attendant symptoms, like fever or bloody stool, a doctor should be consulted.

To ensure that you don’t lose valuable time from your vacation, we recommend drinking bottled water and to follow the saying ‘cook it, peel it or leave it’ with all food.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are not only pests, they can also transmit dangerous infectious diseases. In Asia the most common diseases are malaria or dengue fever. For both illnesses, the symptoms are reminiscent of the flu. When travelling through rural areas for longer periods of time, a medicinal malaria prophylaxis should be considered. The best weapon against either disease is sufficient protection against mosquitoes, such as long sleeves, light colored clothing, insect sprays and dense mosquito nets.

Travel vaccines

When preparing for a journey, it is essential to check your current vaccine status. There are a number of vaccines to consider when travelling to Asia.

Tetanus

The shot against tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a recommended vaccine. Tetanus shots should be updated every ten years, even without plans to leave the country.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an infection of the liver, which can be caused by various viruses and is often detected through jaundice, fever or nausea. Currently, there are vaccines against the Hepatitis A and B virus. Hepatitis A, which is transmitted through dirty water or contaminated food, is mostly harmless and doesn’t require any hospital treatment. In most cases, Hepatitis A will heal after four to eight weeks. The far more dangerous Hepatitis B virus is transmitted through bodily fluids and is more commonly widespread around the world. Hepatitis B can become chronic and lead to a liver zirrhose or carcinoma. For this reason, a Hepatitis B vaccine is a standard shot for any person.

Rabies

While rabies has essentially become extinct in industrial nations, tens of thousands of people in Asia and Africa die from this disease every year. Its main way of transmission is through animal bites. If you are travelling through Asian countries and know that you will be in contact with wild or stray animals, you should consider a vaccine against rabies. A rabies infection can be fatal, however, infection can be avoided through vaccination or a shot immediately after being bitten. In the case of an emergency, the vaccine can also be administered locally, but is often very expensive.

Japanese Encephalitis

The vaccine against Japanese encephalitis is not necessary for all tourists. If you will be travelling around rural areas for long periods of time and will be in close contact with breeding animals, then you should look into the vaccine.

People who will be travelling around Asia for long periods of time should always see a doctor for vaccine consultation. The risk profile and recommended vaccines vary according to the countries you will be visiting and the type of journey. Most insurances will cover a large amount of travel vaccines. You should plan a consultation early on. Many of the vaccines require multiple injections or need to be taken in intervals over several days.

Parasites

In the tropic and subtropical regions, there are a large amount of parasites. The most common way of infection is through oral intake of contaminated food. The most common symptom of a parasite is diarrhea. Parasites can also be transmitted insects or simple skin contact, for example with rough waters. People who are travelling the outback, should be especially careful in regards to their nutritional hygiene and protection against mosquitos.

If symptoms such as weakness, diarrhea or skin rashes should occur, we recommend seeking a doctor. Parasite infections are in most cases very treatable.

Sunburn

The sun should not be underestimated. In many parts of Southeast Asia, the sun is very strong due to the regions’ vicinity to the equator. Sunburns are the main cause of skin cancer. If possible, the midday sun should be avoided, and sufficient sun protection should always be applied. Special care should be taken for children. Sunscreen is often very expensive in holiday destinations, we recommend bringing your own supply.

With correct preparation and sensible behavior, the risk of endangering your health while traveling can be minimized. If you keep the tips above in mind, an enjoyable vacation is guaranteed.