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Popular Destinations in Thailand
Travelers around the world flock to this Southeast Asian country to enjoy exquisite beaches, vibrant nightlife, breathtaking nature, and flavorful foods.
With many international flight options into Bangkok, travelers often begin their journey in the capital city. The Rattanakosin District features the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha along with other ornate temples nearby.
In the north, Chiang Mai is known for its natural beauty with many travelers choosing to hike, trek, and backpack the outdoors. Visiting elephant sanctuaries, night markets, and temples will keep you busy.
Further south, Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Sumui, are famous for their beaches, islands, water sports, and nightlife.
A vacation in Thailand combines the best of city life, forested mountains, and stunning beaches.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine for Thailand
All that adventuring doesn’t come without some risk for visitors, especially when it comes to sampling local cuisines. Typhoid Fever is endemic in Thailand, meaning the illness is found in the population. And because typhoid is spread from consuming contaminated food or beverages, vaccination is typically recommended. While it may sound like a far-off disease, typhoid fever is a type of Salmonella poisoning that can leave you incredibly sick and in hospital.
Routine Vaccine Advice for Thailand
In general, travelers should also be current on their vaccines for:
Japanese Encephalitis & Rabies Vaccines for Thailand
Since the 1990s, the Thai government has included Japanese Encephalitis (JE) as a vaccine in childhood to reduce the spread of this life-threatening illness among the population. Because JE is only found in South East Asia, visitors from the United States have not been protected against this neurologic disease. While this mosquito illness is found throughout Thailand, according to CDC, the highest risk regions are northern provinces including Chang Mai Valley.
Another travel vaccine to consider includes the Rabies vaccine for humans. Most dogs and cats are vaccinated for rabies in Thailand, but if you have plans to visit rural areas, or for an extended time, or travel internationally frequently, consider vaccination as a few doses can now provide life-time protection.
Chikungunya Vaccine for Thailand
In 2018 and 2019 a nation-wide outbreak of chikungunya occurred in Thailand with most cases in urban areas like Bangkok. This mosquito illness can lead to chronic joint pain and can be especially devastating to people 65 years and older. The IXCHIQ chikungunya vaccine may be appropriate for travelers with higher risk for exposure or complications which includes older adults and extended-stay visitors.
Do I Need Malaria Pills for Thailand?
Malaria is uncommon in major cities and beach resorts in Thailand. However, travelers to rural and forested areas, throughout Thailand should be aware of the risk for malaria. Visitors with plans for trekking, hiking, camping, and rafting are at increased risk of infection. Medication to prevent malaria is taken by mouth, no vaccine is available.
Regardless of your specific travel plans, always avoid mosquito bites because other mosquito diseases like Dengue Fever is found throughout Thailand. Learn more about malaria.
- Destination Health
- May 5, 2023