If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health risks associated with infectious diseases. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key infectious diseases to watch out for in Thailand and provide useful tips to protect yourself. Remember, your health is your wealth!
Routine Vaccinations and More
Before embarking on your journey, make sure you’re up to date with your routine vaccinations, including the seasonal influenza vaccine. Additionally, strongly consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B. Depending on your risk factors and travel plans, it may be wise to consider vaccines for Japanese encephalitis (JE) and typhoid fever as well.
Enteric Infections & Diseases
Cholera
Although cholera transmission in Thailand has been infrequent in recent years, it’s always best to stay informed. For the most up-to-date recommendations for travelers, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health website.
Travelers’ Diarrhea
Thai street food is famous for its convenience, delicious flavors, and affordability. However, it’s important to be aware that it can increase the risk of travelers’ diarrhea (TD) due to the lack of clean running water in outdoor eateries. To minimize the chances of falling ill, follow some basic food and water safety precautions. Opt for restaurants or food stalls that cook food to order, avoid raw or undercooked food, consume only steaming hot food served on new disposable dishes, and steer clear of raw garnishes. When it comes to fruits, choose those you can peel yourself. Lastly, stick to beverages from sealed containers. These simple steps can go a long way in safeguarding your stomach from unwanted troubles. For more information on travelers’ diarrhea, refer to Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea. It’s worth noting that fluoroquinolone-resistant enteric pathogens are prevalent in Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Typhoid Fever
Although the incidence of typhoid fever in Thailand has been decreasing, it remains endemic. In 2014, the estimated rate was 3 cases per 100,000 population. If you’re planning an extended stay or visiting remote areas, vaccination against typhoid fever is strongly recommended. For more detailed guidance, refer to Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 24, Typhoid & Paratyphoid Fever.
Respiratory Infections & Diseases
Coronavirus Disease 2019
Given the ongoing global pandemic, it’s crucial to stay informed about the situation in Thailand. The US Embassy & Consulate in Thailand website is an excellent resource for current information on COVID-19. Additionally, refer to the US government’s COVID-19 international travel requirements and recommendations. Prioritize staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations before traveling to Thailand.
Tuberculosis
Thailand has a high burden of tuberculosis (TB). If you’re immunocompromised and planning an extended visit to Thailand, it’s essential to be aware of the increased risk for TB. Avoid contact with individuals known to have active TB and refrain from consuming unpasteurized dairy products. For further guidance, consult Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 22, Tuberculosis.
Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV
Thailand is a popular destination for tourists seeking various experiences, including sex. While commercial sex work is illegal, it still exists in many places in Thailand. Visitors to red-light districts should be cautious as these areas have been associated with human trafficking.
In 2019, approximately 470,000 people were living with HIV/AIDS in Thailand. However, the number of new HIV infections reported each year has been decreasing since 2010. The 100% condom program implemented in the country has significantly contributed to slowing down the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remain aware of the risks associated with acquiring HIV and other STIs in Thailand. Always practice safe sex by using condoms and refrain from injecting drugs or sharing needles. If you’re at high risk for HIV infection, consider discussing preexposure prophylaxis with your primary care and travel medicine providers. For more information, consult Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 11, Human Immunodeficiency Virus / HIV.
Soil- & Waterborne Infections
Leptospirosis & Melioidosis
Leptospirosis and melioidosis are two diseases to be cautious of, primarily prevalent in the southern and northeastern regions of Thailand. In both cases, most infections occur during the rainy season, which typically lasts from July to October. Adventure travelers engaging in activities that expose them to soil and surface water have an increased risk of contracting these diseases. To minimize the risk, avoid contact with soil and water when visiting endemic areas, keep open wounds covered, and ensure proper cleanliness after any contact with soil or surface water. For detailed information, refer to Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 10, Leptospirosis and Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 12, Melioidosis.
Vectorborne Diseases
Dengue & Zika
Dengue fever is endemic throughout Thailand and experiences large epidemics every few years. The peak transmission occurs during the rainy season, but cases are reported year-round, even in non-epidemic years. To protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, take necessary measures to avoid mosquito bites. For further guidance, consult Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods.
As for Zika virus transmission, although it has occurred in Thailand, there is no evidence of recent outbreaks. Nevertheless, due to the risk of birth defects in infants born to individuals infected with Zika during pregnancy, pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should review the most recent CDC recommendations. For more detailed information, refer to Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 27, Zika.
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is endemic to many parts of Thailand, particularly outside the capital. The transmission occurs year-round, with seasonal epidemics in the northern provinces, mainly from May to October. Although most outbreaks happen in the Chiang Mai valley, cases have been reported in travelers visiting resorts or coastal areas in southern Thailand. If you plan to visit Thailand for a month or more, getting vaccinated against JE is highly recommended. Even if your visit is shorter, consider the vaccine if your travel itinerary or activities put you at an increased risk of exposure to JE virus. For detailed guidance, refer to Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 13, Japanese Encephalitis.
Malaria
Malaria is endemic to specific areas in Thailand, particularly the rural, forested regions bordering Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, and Laos, as well as the provinces in the far south along the border with Malaysia. Transmission occurs year-round, peaking during the rainy season, with a smaller peak in December. Approximately 80% of cases are due to Plasmodium vivax, while less than 20% are caused by P. falciparum. If you’re visiting any of the endemic areas, it’s important to protect yourself from mosquito bites and consider antimalarial prophylaxis. For detailed information, refer to Sec. 2, Ch. 5, Yellow Fever Vaccine and Malaria Prevention Information, by Country; Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods; and Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 16, Malaria. Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or tafenoquine are the recommended prophylactic antimalarial drugs for travelers going to malaria-endemic areas in Thailand. However, if you’re traveling to areas with rare to few cases of malaria transmission (e.g., Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket), mosquito avoidance without chemoprophylaxis is the recommended approach.
Remember, prevention is key when it comes to infectious diseases. Stay informed, follow the recommended guidelines, and prioritize your health throughout your journey. Safe travels!
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