Risk / Health Info for India

What vaccine should I get for going to India?

For a trip to India recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and typhoid as sanitation may be poor in some areas.

A Japanese encephalitis vaccine is also a good idea, particularly if you will be staying in a rural area.

Can I go to India if I have asthma?

Air pollution in Delhi may cause problems for those with respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.

Outbreaks in India

Cases of zika were reported to the World Health Organisation in Gujarat in May 2017. Avoid mosquito bites when travelling in Gujarat by wearing light coloured clothes with good skin coverage, using mosquito repellents and sleeping in screened rooms.

There have been cases of chikungunya virus, which is also spread by mosquitoes in New Delhi.

What is healthcare like in India?

Local medical facilities are not up to North American standards. Private healthcare is available in major cities but expect to pay high prices for treatment. If you are travelling to India for a medical procedure, you should get vaccinated against hepatitis B as this viral infection of the liver can be serious and long lasting.

It may be hard to get good quality care for psychiatric illnesses outside major cities.

In an emergency dial 102 and ask for an ambulance.

Altitude in India

Parts of India are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Dengue fever in India

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in India. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in India

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of India at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

polio in India

Zika in India

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in India. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to India. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.