Tips for a Healthy Holiday in Cambodia

Like Much of Asia, Health is the Most Common Khmer Getaway Concern

Mar 7, 2009

Cambodia still has a reputation for being a slightly edgy destination, but the truth is, minor medical problems are the most likely cause of disasters during a holiday.

Land mines remain an issue in a very few remote areas, but sticking to marked paths virtually ensures safety. Robbery and assaults are rare but real dangers, according to foreign consular officials, but again, these risks are significantly reduced by following general safety procedures applicable to any country.

These include not traveling alone at night, always choosing a trusted or recommended driver, dressing sensibly and not carrying important documents such as passports nor more money than is necessary.

Basic Vaccinations

There is no legal requirement to show proof of vaccinations upon arrival in Cambodia, but as in most of Southeast Asia, doctors and medics strongly advise you ensure your following vaccinations are current:

Also recommended are immunizations against Japanese Encephalitis, Cholera and Rabies. Hepatitis and Tuberculosis are absolutely endemic. Rabies remains a common disease and is much easier to treat if the victim has already been vaccinated. If traveling with small children, make sure they know to stay away from carrier animals like dogs, monkeys and bats.

Bird Flu in Southeast Asia (Avian Influenza or H5N1 Virus)

Cambodia has reported confirmed cases of bird flu, including human deaths, although it has so far managed to contain outbreaks. The World Health Organization recommends only eating poultry products which are thoroughly cooked and avoiding close contact with birds as much as possible. The Asia Development Bank has cited poor sanitation as a key in the spread of the virus, especially when bird waste is allowed to mingle with washing and drinking water.

Dengue Fever and Malaria

The mosquito-borne diseases of Malaria and Dengue fever are common, so anti-Malarial prophylactics are recommended for provincial areas. However, since late 2008 malaria scientists have been warning of a drug resistant 'super strain' on the Thai-Cambodia border, and considering there is no vaccine for Dengue, the safest option for both diseases is to avoid being bitten at all.

Dengue is spread by a day-biting mosquito and is most common in built-up areas as its carrier mosquitoes prefer clean, cool water for breeding, such as that found in building sites or household rubbish such as old car tires.

Dengue, also known as break bone fever for its incredibly painful symptoms, is a potentially serious illness which prompts dozens of medical evacuations per year. Wear long sleeves and trousers and apply a good mosquito repellant containing DEET. Air-con will slow mosquitoes down but not stop them. Mosquito nets are mandatory in the provinces.

Heat, Traffic and Food

The heat and humidity of Cambodia is far more of a threat to the average traveler than any serious communicable disease. Sunscreen, and lots of it, is a must. Wearing a hat, loose fitting, light colored clothes and always carrying plenty of drinking water are also precautions that should not be ignored.

Heat stroke is a serious condition that can result in hospitalization, so reading up on the symptoms and seeking medical assistance at the first signs is highly recommended. Other heat-related risks include heat rash, which spreads fast and may become infected in the tropical climate, and fungal infections. Remember even a small scratch can turn septic within hours in the tropics so try to avoid irritations such as these which break the skin.

Road traffic accidents claim far more lives in Cambodia than landmines, and the country's chaotic traffic is a real safety concern. If traveling on the back of motorbikes, a helmet is recommended, and be aware that many travel insurance plans will not cover you if you are injured whilst riding as a passenger, so read the fine print of your travel insurance plan. All embassies recommend taking out a good travel insurance package before any travel.

Travelers unused to the food in underdeveloped countries should be very careful about what they eat and drink. Sanitation at street stalls and even some medium range restaurants is often poor, and Cholera, Typhoid and Hepatitis A are all very common.

Avoid consuming ice if possible, and drink good quality bottled water – tap water and several cheaper brands of bottled water have all caused travelers problems in the past. Ensure all food is well cooked, and avoid salads and raw foods that may have been poorly washed, as well as poorly cooked meats – especially shellfish and poultry.

These factors covered, remember Cambodia receives more than 2 million visitors a year now and very few of these visitors report serious problems. While it remains an under-explored destination, Cambodia is a relatively safe one, attracting travelers ranging from families with small children to backpackers to package and cruise tourists.

The copyright of the article Tips for a Healthy Holiday in Cambodia in Cambodia Travel is owned by Bronwyn Sloan. Permission to republish Tips for a Healthy Holiday in Cambodia in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.