Risk / Health Info for Thailand

Do I need vaccines for Thailand?

There are some recommended immunisations for Thailand and Global Travel Clinics can help you arrange these. Immunizations against food- and water-borne illnesses such as typhoid and hepatitis A are a good idea before you travel to Thailand.

A vaccination for Japanese encephalitis (JE) is worth considering, too, particularly if you have a long stay in Thailand. The mosquitoes that carry JE are common in rice paddies.

Rabies is present in Thailand in wild and domestic animals, particularly dogs, cats and monkeys. You can get a vaccination against rabies and this is a good idea if you are going to spend time with animals. It is also recommended for children, who don’t always remember that it isn’t safe to pet a strange animal. If you suffer an animal bite or scratch, you should get it looked at by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

What are the hospital facilities like in Thailand?

Hospitals in Thailand are varied: the private medical facilities are excellent, while the public ones may not be up to Canadian standards. You may need to pay up-front or guarantee payment before treatment commences. Ensure you have travel health insurance if you are going to Thailand.

Air quality in Thailand

If you suffer from asthma or another respiratory condition you may find air pollution caused by smoke haze a problem in Thailand during March and April. Singapore Meteorological Service maintains a haze map which may be of use in making your travel plans for Thailand.

Altitude in Thailand

Parts of Thailand 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 Thailand

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Thailand. 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 Thailand

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Thailand 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.

Japanese encephalitis in Thailand

avian influenza in Thailand

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Thailand

MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory infection with a high mortality rate. It is caused by the coronavirus and is thought to be contracted from infected camels. You should take diligent hygiene measures such as thorough handwashing if you visit a farm, barn or market or touch a camel. Avoid contact with sick animals. Do not drink raw camel milk or urine; and do not eat camel meat that has not been properly cooked. The Government of Canada has issued a travel health advisory about Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in Thailand.