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Be a healthy traveller

Everyone enjoys a trip abroad. But you will not have a pleasant journey unless you are a healthy traveler. So, take our advice and read the following before planning your vacation.

Before leaving
>> Vaccination
Check with your travel agent, doctor or the Port Health Office for the types of vaccines required. These include vaccination against yellow fever (required under the International Health Regulations if you visit certain countries in Africa and South America), cholera, typhoid, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A etc. Vaccines may not be immediately effective, so you should plan your vaccination at least one month before departure

>> Medications
Obtain a medical certificate from your doctor if you are suffering from chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes of epilepsy. If you need to take regular medication, be sure to have an ample supply of your drugs (together with your doctor’s prescription order) to last your entire trip.

>> First-aid Kit
Remember to bring along antiseptic cream, bandages, cotton wool, anti-pyretic (use with discretion!), pills for seasickness, insect repellents, etc. in a handy bag.

While you are abroad

(Check here  of course!)
>> Food and Drinks
Make sure your food is fully cooked and your drinking water boiled. (Particular in India, Mongolia and Tuped). Avoid cold dishes. Eat with discretion, and consume spirits in moderation, if at all. Vaccination is not a panacea against every type of infection. Caution, instead, is most important in prevention. 

>> In the Countryside
Do not swim or walk with bare foot around rivers and swamps, for this is where germs and parasites thrive. 

>> Keep away from stray dogs, cats and monkeys. Avoid mosquito-infested areas.

Upon returning

Consult a doctor immediately if you feel unwell or have the following symptoms: fever, chills, rashes, diarrhea or vomiting. You can also visit any Government Outpatient Clinic or Accident & Emergency Department. Remember to tell your doctor where you have been, including transit countries. 

The Port Health Office in Hong Kong
Vaccination services (with certificates) are also provided. Please enquire at:
>> Hong Kong Island
18/Fl Wu Chung House, 213 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai. Tel: 2961 8840
>> Kowloon
Room 905, Government Offices, Canton Road. Tel:2368 3361

Diseases you have to look out for

>> Mosquito-borne diseases: Malaria and Dengue Fever are diseases transmitted by bites of infected mosquito. Both are prevalent in the tropics and subtropics. Always consult a doctor first if you plan to visit malaria endemic areas. Pills for malaria prophylaxis may need to be taken. Medication should be started one week before departure, and be continued for 30 days after returning to Hong Kong. There is, however, no effective preventive pills nor vaccine against Dengue Fever. While you are abroad, stay away from mosquito infested areas. Always wear long-sleeved clothes and trousers while in the countryside. Use insect repellents on exposed body parts. You should also sleep under a mosquito net.