Health warnings for Vietnam and Thailand
Tuesday, 22 Apr 2008 08:44
Increased cases of dengue fever in Thailand and reports of cholera in Vietnam have led the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to warn travellers to be vigilant in taking health precautions.
The FCO reports a significant increase in the number of Dengue fever cases this year, compared to the same time in 2007.
There have been over 7,000 cases and a number of people have died. There is no vaccination for dengue fever.
Cases of cholera have been reported throughout Vietnam, beginning with an outbreak in November and December and continuing to the present time.
This includes both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
For both dengue fever and cholera, travellers should take necessary precautions to prevent diarrhoea, including boiling water before drinking or using bottled water.
Try to ensure bottled water is from a reputable source and is sealed.
The FCO warns travellers to take care when eating food from restaurants or street stalls as hygiene standards vary and there is a risk of contamination.