How to Avoid Getting Sick While Travelling to Southeast Asia

How to Avoid Getting Sick While Travelling to Southeast Asia

Are you taking a private car from Singapore to JB? Or are you travelling to Southeast Asia for the first time? Whatever the case, you will surely experience an exciting blend of vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and exotic cuisines.

However, it also comes with its set of health challenges. Tropical climates, different sanitary standards, and unfamiliar pathogens can pose risks. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to avoid getting sick while exploring Southeast Asia.

1. Pre-Travel Preparations

Vaccinations

Before you depart, ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date. Common recommendations for Southeast Asia include:

  • Hepatitis A and B: These vaccines protect against viruses that can be contracted through contaminated food and water or blood and body fluids.
  • Typhoid: This is especially important if you stay with locals or visit smaller cities and rural areas.
  • Tetanus: A must for any traveller.
  • Rabies: Consider this if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors or around animals.
  • Japanese Encephalitis: It is recommended for long-term travellers or those visiting rural areas.
  • Malaria prophylaxis: Depending on your destination within Southeast Asia, antimalarial medication may be advisable.

Travel Insurance

Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and emergency evacuation. In case of a severe illness, having insurance ensures you get the necessary care without exorbitant costs.

2. Food and Water Safety

 Eating Safely

One of the joys of Southeast Asia is its street food. However, it’s important to be cautious:

  • Eat at popular stalls: High turnover means the food is likely fresh.
  • Watch food preparation: Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and served hot.
  • Avoid raw foods: Especially in areas with questionable water quality, as they might be washed in contaminated water.

Drinking Water 

Waterborne illnesses are a major concern:

  • Stick to bottled water: Ensure the seal is intact before purchasing.
  • Avoid ice: It may be made from contaminated water.
  • Use water purification tablets or filters: Handy for trips to remote areas.
  • Boil water: If you’re unsure about water quality, boiling it is a reliable method of disinfection.

3. Personal Hygiene

Hand Hygiene 

Good hand hygiene is crucial:

  • Carry hand sanitiser: Use it frequently, especially before eating.
  • Wash hands: With soap and water whenever possible, particularly after using the restroom and before meals.

Avoiding Contact with Animals

Animals can carry diseases such as rabies:

  • Do not pet stray animals, even if they seem friendly.
  • Seek medical attention if bitten or scratched, even if vaccinated.

While Singapore has been rabies-free since 1953, it is better to be safe than sorry.

4. Environmental Precautions 

Mosquito Protection

Mosquitoes in Southeast Asia can carry diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and Zika virus:

  • Use insect repellent: DEET-based repellents are most effective.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants: Especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Sleep under mosquito nets: If you’re staying in areas where malaria is prevalent or in accommodations without screens on windows and doors.

Sun Protection

The tropical sun can be intense:

  • Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
  • Wear hats and sunglasses: To protect your face and eyes.
  • Stay hydrated: Keep cool by drinking plenty of fluids, which will help prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration.

5. Preventing Traveler’s Diarrhoea

Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common ailment:

  • Probiotics: Consider taking probiotics before and during your trip to help build up gut flora.
  • Rehydration salts: Carry oral rehydration salts to replace lost fluids and electrolytes if you do get diarrhoea.
  • Medications: Bring along anti-diarrhoeal medication and antibiotics, but use them under medical advice. 

6. Travel Wisely

Choosing Accommodations 

Your choice of accommodation can impact your health:

  • Opt for reputable places: Higher standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
  • Check for bed nets: In areas where malaria is common.

Staying Hydrated and Well-Rested 

Travelling can be exhausting:

  • Rest adequately: A well-rested body is better at fighting off infections.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of clean water, especially in hot climates.

7. Handling Emergencies 

Knowing Where to Go

In case of illness:

  • Research local hospitals: Know where the nearest medical facilities are.
  • Know generic names: Be familiar with the generic names of essential medicines.
  • Check expiration dates: When buying medication locally.

Conclusion

Staying healthy while travelling to Southeast Asia requires some planning and precautions, but it’s entirely manageable. By preparing in advance, being mindful of food and water safety, maintaining good hygiene, protecting yourself from environmental hazards, and knowing how to handle emergencies, you can minimise the risk of illness. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich experiences that Southeast Asia has to offer, from its bustling markets and serene temples to its breathtaking beaches and lush jungles.

If you’re visiting Singapore or Malaysia, consider booking a private car with SGMYTRIPS. We offer cheap private cars from Singapore to JB, Malacca, and more, guaranteeing a comfortable and stress-free journey from start to end. Reach out to us for more information.