In order to prevent sicknesses and other risks, there are a few safety precautions that should be observed when visiting Thailand or South East Asia in general. Some vaccinations for Thailand are recommended, while others can be necessary for certain circumstances. Before travelling, it’s important to know what travel to Thailand vaccines you need and how to get them in Exeter.

What vaccines do I need to travel to Thailand?

Thailand is a popular holiday destination, drawing more than a million British tourists yearly. It has a tropical monsoon climate and a very diverse landscape, including long stretches of coastline, thick rainforests, paddy fields, and high mountain ranges. Unfortunately, it also poses some health risks that are non-existent in the UK, so you must take precautionary medical measures before travelling.

For information on required vaccines and other entry requirements, consult the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s (FCDO) travel advice for Thailand. Tetanus, hepatitis A, and maybe yellow fever vaccinations are indicated for visitors to Thailand. You might also need to take extra precautions, depending on where you’re going and what you want to do there.

Tetanus

Tetanus is spread through contaminated cuts, burns, and wounds. This makes it a potential concern throughout the area, particularly in places with little access to healthcare. Your body’s muscles may become tense as a result of the infection, which can make it difficult to breathe and swallow. The tetanus vaccine is given in the UK in a total of five injectable doses. You should get a booster if it has been ten years since your previous injection.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A symptoms include itchy skin, a high fever, joint pain, nausea and a liver infection that is transmitted by contaminated food and water. It occurs frequently in areas with low sanitation and is not specifically treated. The hepatitis A vaccine involves a single injectable dose.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a serious condition that can cause extremely high temperatures, back pain, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. It is spread by mosquito bites.

All travellers over the age of 9 months who are travelling from any country where there is a risk of yellow fever must have the yellow fever vaccination. This is mandatory even if they have only transited (for more than 12 hours) via the airport. Verify your entire holiday itinerary once more before you travel, and bring identification such as your immunisation certificate.

Can you get malaria in Thailand?

Mosquitoes are a constant problem in Thailand, especially for anyone who spends any time in lowland rice fields and rural areas, where they breed. Malaria is the most prevalent and serious illness spread by mosquitoes. It may result in high fever or may be fatal. Some symptoms may start to appear up to a year after exposure.

You should avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes in areas where malaria is a risk. Dress in long sleeves and pants, especially after dusk, use insect repellent on any exposed skin, and, if necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. The use of antimalarials such Atovaquone, Proguanil, or Doxycycline is also advised for anyone planning to spend a significant period of time in any affected areas.

Are there additional vaccines for other diseases needed to travel to Thailand?

The Zika virus is among the several parasite-borne diseases that can be found in Thailand. Although it is generally moderate, pregnant women may experience serious adverse effects. Dengue fever also results in fever, headaches, and agonising joint and muscular discomfort. The best form of protection is to avoid mosquito bites, as neither of these diseases has an efficient vaccination or injection. Both illnesses are more common in urban areas compared to rural ones.

Although unlikely, vaccination and antimalarials should be considered for anyone travelling for a lengthy amount of time to any of Thailand’s mosquito-infested areas. This is due to the fact that mosquitoes can spread a neurological condition known as Japanese encephalitis. Cholera may also be an issue if you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the country. Vaccination can provide you with protection against this.

When should I get my travel vaccines in Exeter before I travel to Thailand?

Anyone who needs a jab before visiting Thailand should schedule an appointment with their doctor or pharmacist six to eight weeks beforehand. For any medical updates, people should also check the official government website.

Can you go to Thailand without the Covid vaccine?

COVID-19-related documentation is no longer required for entry into Thailand.

Where can I get the vaccines required to travel to Thailand in Exeter?

Book your appointment or visit Luxtons Pharmacy today to get your travel to Thailand vaccines in Exeter and stay protected as you travel.

 

 

This blog post was written on behalf of Luxtons Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.