 Malaysia
Essentials : Tropical Health
DEHYDRATION & SUNBURN
The sun is strong throughout the year in the country. Proper
care against sunburn must be constantly taken. Dehydration
and loss of salt through perspiration are two other common
problems for the unprepared traveller. Drink plenty of fluids
and replace your salt loss. Make sure you pack clothing suitable
for a warm humid climate.
MOSQUITOES
Due to the constant humid climate, mosquitoes tend to be present
throughout the year. The three most significant diseases transmitted
by mosquitoes are Malaria, Dengue Fever and Japanese B Encephalitis.
To repel mosquitoes, ticks and other arthropods, apply an
insect repellent containing DEET to your skin or clothing.
The risk of malaria for most tourists visiting Peninsular
Malaysia is extremely small. There is insignificant risk in
Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other major cities. However, in East
Malaysia, the risk of malaria is present throughout the year.
Even in these regions, the risk is mainly off the coastal
plains and towards the border areas. Generally, prophylaxis
is recommended for those visiting Sabah or Sarawak.
YELLOW FEVER
There is no risk of yellow fever in Malaysia. A certificate
of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry if you are
coming from countries in South America or sub-Saharan Africa.
FOOD
Generally, the level of food hygiene throughout the country
is high. However, make sure your food and drinking water are
safe. Food from street vendors should be treated with care.
Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly)
drinks in cans or bottles. If possible, avoid tap water, fountain
drinks, and ice cubes. Bring along iodine tablets and portable
water filters to purify water if bottled water is not available.
Also, wash your hands often with soap and water. As an extra
precaution, bring along anti-diarrhoea medication and an antibiotic
prescribed by your doctor to self-treat moderate to severe
diarrhoea.
VACCINATIONS
Recommended vaccines:
- Poliomyelitis (childhood booster)
- Tetanus (childhood booster)
- Typhoid (food & water borne diseases)
- Hepatitis A (food & water borne diseases)
For those venturing outside cities and towns, further recommended
vaccines are Hepatitis B, Rabies, Japanese B Encephalitis,
Tuberculosis and Meningitis. For those visiting Sabah and
Sarawak, Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended.
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