Planning a trip to Southeast Asia from Europe anytime soon? If so, it's important to make sure that you have all the necessary vaccines sorted before you go. Not only will this protect your health, but it will also give you peace of mind and help make your trip that bit more enjoyable.
*Note: It's always best to discuss vaccines with your health care provider first!
Here's a list of some of the vaccines to consider before traveling to Southeast Asia:
Hepatitis A: This vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Southeast Asia. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that's transmitted through contaminated food and water. It's known to cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and jaundice. The Hepatitis A vaccine is usually given in as two shots, six to twelve months apart.Hepatitis B: This vaccine is recommended for travelers who intend on staying in Southeast Asia for an extended period of time, or who will be engaging in activities that may put them at a higher risk of exposure to Hepatitis B (such as healthcare work or sexual contact). Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can be transmitted through contaminated blood, needles, and sexual contact. It can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and jaundice. Normally this vaccine is given in three shots over a period of six months.
Typhoid: This vaccine is recommended for travellers who'll be visiting rural areas or eating street food in Southeast Asia. Typhoid is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through contaminated food and water. It can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and stomach pain. There are several different typhoid vaccines available, including oral pills and injectable vaccines. Chat your healthcare provider who will help you determine which one is right for you.
Japanese Encephalitis: This vaccine is recommended for travellers who will be staying in rural areas of Southeast Asia for an extended period of time, or who will be engaging in activities that may put them at higher risk of exposure to Japanese Encephalitis (such as farming or camping). Japanese Encephalitis is a viral infection that is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. It can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and inflammation of the brain. The vaccine for the Japanese Encephalitis is usually given in two shots, 28 days apart from one another.
Rabies: This vaccine is recommended for travelers who will be staying in Southeast Asia for an extended period of time, or who will be engaging in activities that may put them at higher risk of exposure to rabies (such as hiking or biking). Rabies is a viral infection that is transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. It can be fatal if left untreated. The rabies vaccine is usually given in a series of three shots over the course of several weeks, again your doctor will be able to give you more information on this.
It's important to note that these are just a few of the vaccines that may be recommended for travellers to Southeast Asia. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before your trip to determine which vaccines are right for you. There's a number of factors your doctor will take into account, such as your age, health status, and travel plans and from that they will be able to make personalised recommendations for you.
Other protective measures you can include is to pack a little first aid kit with the basic essentials. This can come in handy wherever you travel (should you need it).
Want to know more about Southeast Asia? Read our latest article on The Best Things To do While Visiting SEA.