South East Asia: Travel Guide

Travelling to Southeast Asia from the UK

Welcome to Prestwich Travel Clinic! Whether you're embarking on a backpacking adventure through lush jungles or planning a relaxing beach vacation, Southeast Asia offers a plethora of experiences to satisfy any traveller. Before you embark on your journey, it's essential to be well-prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here's a comprehensive guide to vaccinations, malaria tablets, and insect repellent for your Southeast Asia adventure:

Vaccinations

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and flu if applicable, are up to date before travelling to Southeast Asia.

Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A and B are common in many parts of Southeast Asia. Vaccination against these diseases is highly recommended, especially if you're planning an extended stay or visiting rural areas.

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is prevalent in Southeast Asia, particularly in areas with poor sanitation. Vaccination can provide protection against this bacterial infection.

Diphtheria and Tetanus

Risk of Diptheria is higher if you're mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions. Tetanus boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.

Japanese Encephalitis

This mosquito-borne virus is found in rural areas of Southeast Asia, especially during the rainy season. Travelers planning to spend significant time outdoors or in rural regions may consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis.

Rabies

While the risk of rabies may vary depending on your activities and destinations, it's wise to consider vaccination if you anticipate close contact with animals or plan to visit remote areas where access to medical care may be limited.

Cholera

Cholera outbreaks can occur in certain parts of Southeast Asia, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation. Vaccination may be recommended in specific situations. Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water. Risk is highest for humanitarian aid workers; those working in refugee camps or slums; those caring for people with cholera.

Book a free telephone consultation with one of our travel experts to discuss which vaccinations are appropriate for your itinerary and individual health needs.

Top five Southeast Asian countries to visit

Thailand

White sand beaches, temples, palaces, & cuisine

Best time to visit:
November - April
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Vietnam

Cities, canals, beaches
& caves

Best time to visit:
April & September
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Singapore

Botanic gardens, museums, & a theme park

Best time to visit:
February - April, & September
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Indonesia

Islands, rainforests, volcanoes, parks & wildlife

Best time to visit:
April - October
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Malaysia

Rainforests, beaches, wildlife, cities, highlands

Best time to visit:
March - June
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Malaria Tablets

Malaria is a prevalent mosquito-borne disease in many parts of Southeast Asia, including rural areas and certain regions of countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Indonesia. While taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites is crucial, malaria prophylaxis may also be recommended, especially if you're traveling to high-risk areas.

Common malaria prophylaxis options include:

1. Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone)

This combination medication is often prescribed for travellers to regions where malaria is prevalent. It's usually well-tolerated but may cause side effects in some individuals.

2. Doxycycline

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that can also be used as a malaria prophylaxis. It's taken daily and should be started before entering a malaria-endemic area and continued for a specified period after leaving.

3. Mefloquine (Lariam)

Mefloquine is another option for malaria prophylaxis, but it may not be suitable for everyone due to potential side effects, including neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Discuss the most suitable malaria prophylaxis option with a travel expert at Prestwich Travel clinic. We will discuss various factors with you, such as your destination, medical history, and potential side effects.

Insect Repellent

In addition to malaria prophylaxis, protecting yourself against mosquito bites is essential for preventing other mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and Zika virus infection.

Here are some tips for using bug spray effectively:

1. Choose an Effective Repellent

Insect repellents help to prevent insects from biting you (it does not kill them). They should contain one of the following ingredients: DEET, Icaradin (Picardin), Lemon Eucalyptus (PMD), or IR3535. These ingredients have been proven effective in repelling mosquitoes.

2. Apply Properly

Follow the instructions on the repellent label for proper application. Apply the repellent to exposed skin and clothing, taking care to avoid sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, and open wounds.

3. Reapply as Needed

Mosquito repellents may need to be reapplied every few hours, especially if you're sweating heavily or swimming. Carry a small bottle of repellent with you so you can reapply as needed throughout the day.

4. Use Protective Clothing

In addition to bug spray, wearing long sleeves, pants, and socks can provide added protection against mosquito bites, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

By taking these precautions and following the advice of our travel experts, you can minimize the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses and enjoy a safe and memorable journey through Southeast Asia.