China is the third most traveled country in the world, with 57.6 million visitors every year. While China’s economy has improved during the last 30 years, there are many areas of the country that need improvement. Pollution and sanitation issues burden this country, and as a result, the spread of diseases that are normally prevalent in third world countries are a problem.
Therefore, before visiting China, the Centers for Disease Control and the Chinese government advise travelers to inoculate themselves against several diseases before entering the country. Your New York travel clinic physician has access to all the information you need about required and recommended vaccinations, so be sure to set up an appointment as soon as possible. Be sure to tell the doctor about any medical conditions you may have before taking any vaccines or preventative medications.
It is recommended that you be inoculated at least 4 to 6 weeks before your travel date in order for the vaccines to become fully effective and medications to prevent Malaria to activate in your system. Even if you are taking a trip to China before that timeframe, it is still necessary to get your vaccines. Your doctor will also advise you on how to prevent illnesses common to China and how to avoid injury during your stay.
When arriving in China from certain other destinations, their government may require you to be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. While Yellow Fever is not a common disease in China, there are many Asian countries that do have problems with the disease. Be sure to bring proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever in order to present it to Chinese Customs agents.
Your routine vaccinations must be up to date before entering China. Check with your general practitioner to be sure you are up to date. You should be current on influenza, varicella, polio, MMR, and DPT boosters before traveling. Even if you are not traveling, you should keep these immunizations current in order to prevent deadly diseases.
The Chinese government recommends that you be vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. These diseases can be spread by drinking unclean water or contaminated food. Be sure to drink bottled water and take iodine tablets with you in case you are without access to water you feel you can trust.
There are several provinces whose rural areas constantly battle the spread of Malaria, a mosquito borne illness. If you plan to travel to rural areas of Anhui, Guizhou, Hainan, Henan, Hubei, and Yunnan Provinces you should take preventative doses of medications. If you plan on taking any river cruises or visiting any marketplaces whose pathways are lined with water, it is advisable to take preventative medications against Malaria.
Even if you do not plan on traveling to areas of China where mosquito borne illnesses are a known concern, it is still a good idea to take prescription anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to pack and use insect repellents containing DEET or use repellent wipes. Keep your skin covered with long pants and long sleeved shirts when possible and sleep in a well screened room under a mosquito net where there is air conditioning.
Top Rated NYC Physician
Traveling outside of USA and concerned about your health? Travel vaccinations are recommended for many destinations. Find out about the requirements and talk to a physician.
5 Star40 Reviews
Travelers should heed warnings about Malaria and take the treat seriously. There are areas of China where mosquitos are resistant to repellants and anti-malarial drugs are ineffective. Check the CDC website on areas of China you will be visiting. In some areas, preventative medications are not recommended. Be sure to purchase your preventative medications in the United States, where the health standards are kept consistent and there is no worry of taking contaminated or tainted doses of medications.
For more information about travel vaccinations or to make an appointment to be inoculated, please contact us today.