China Travel Health

Travel Health

Before you enter China make sure you organize travel insurance and declare any existing medical conditions you may have. Recommended vaccinations are Adult diphtheria and tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, mumps and rubella, Typhoid, Varicella, Influenza, Japanese B encephalitis, Pneumonia, Rabies and Tuberculosis. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas. Pregnant women and children should seek advice from a doctor who specializes in travel medication. Most vaccines do not produce immunity until at least two weeks after they are administered so it is recommended to receive these vaccines at least six to eight weeks prior to departure.

When buying food be careful to ensure all food is cooked thoroughly. Never drink tap water- only drink boiled water or purified drinking water in bottles. Beer, wine and soft drinks are all safe and usually very cheap.

New diseases are sometimes a threat and can often spread quickly in China. There have been outbreaks of SARS and more recently bird flu and swine flu.

Travellers are often targets for well organised thieves so it is important to be on guard and keep your belongings close to you. High risk areas in China are bus and train stations, public toilets, city and long-distance buses and hard-seat train carriages. Hotels are usually safe and have safes and storage areas for valuables. Carry the minimum amount of cash required and keep the rest in traveller’s cheques. It would be wise to take a money belt for passport, cash and credit cards. Be vigilant at all times and if possible travel with a companion or small group.

Pollution is a serious problem in China along with noise so be prepared for this as often it’s a shock for most travellers. Spitting is also common with the locals so you should be prepared for this – it doesn’t have the same taboos as in the West.

There are a number of reliable clinics in major cities which cater to travellers and have Western-trained doctors who speak English. If it is a minor problem (such as diarrhoea) self-treatment is recommended, so it would be wise to carry the relevant medication with you. Buying medication over the counter is not recommended in most places as poorly stored or out of date drugs are common. To find the nearest medical facility, contact your insurance company or your embassy.

We strongly advise that all Australian travellers check the latest travel advice on the Australian Government Smart Traveller site.