International Medical Clinic give us the lowdown on how to avoid nasties like Hepatitis, Typhoid, and Diphtheria when travelling around Southeast Asia
When planning a dream vacay, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of sourcing an uber chic holiday wardrobe, finalising the perfect itinerary, and ensuring you’ve got reservations at the hottest bars and restaurants in town. But it’s easy to forget the most important thing of all: staying healthy to enjoy the experience! We recently caught up with the team at International Medical Clinic who gave us the lowdown on which nasties to be aware of when visiting Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of Southeast Asia. Put your needle phobia to one side; if you’re a perpetual sufferer of wanderlust, it’s time to get immunised!
Firstly, before heading on any trip, be sure to check with your doctor whether injections are required; depending on which region of a country you’re visiting, it might result in different vaccination guidance. For example, staying in a five-star resort in Koh-Samui is very different from visiting a remote village on the Thai/Burmese border. We say it’s best to double-check, and don’t assume requirements are the same country-wide.
Also be mindful that while Singapore is relatively free of certain diseases, the surrounding areas of Malaysia and Indonesia (including Batam and Bintan!) are not. Regardless of where you’re travelling within the region, the IMC team recommends this core batch of jabs to keep you in tip-top health for all of your Asian adventures.
Hepatitis A
Often contracted through contaminated food or water, Hep A will cause viral inflammation of the liver – eeeek, sounds painful! Avoid this by getting the two jab vaccine (given six to 12 months apart) for immunity that lasts over 20 years.
Hepatitis B
Hep B is also a viral inflammation of the liver, but this strain is contracted through blood, blood products, and bodily fluids. Modes of transmission include dirty needles (that dodgy tattoo in Thailand doesn’t seem quite so appealing anymore, does it!), blood transfusions, and sexual contact. Three vaccines over six months are required – followed by a blood test to check immunity – for lifelong protection.
Typhoid
A bacterial infection transmitted via contaminated food and drink that can be avoided through one simple vaccine. It lasts two to three years, so be sure to keep yours up to date.
Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis
Say hello to a trio of nasty bacterial infections you do not want to catch; kill three birds with one stone and get yourself the combo vaccine that lasts for 10 years.
Polio
Though we’re all vaccinated for this viral infection at a young age, don’t forget to get your booster jab if you haven’t had one within the last 10 years.
This article is sponsored by the International Medical Clinic