DEHYDRATION & SUNBURN
The sun is strong throughout the year in the country. Proper
care against sunburn must be constantly taken. Dehydration
and loss of salt through perspiration are two other common
problems for the unprepared traveller. Drink plenty of
fluids and replace your salt loss. Make sure you pack
clothing suitable for a warm humid climate.
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MOSQUITOES
Due to the constant humid climate, mosquitoes tend to be
present throughout the year. The three most significant
diseases transmitted by mosquitoes are Malaria, Dengue Fever
and Japanese B Encephalitis. To repel mosquitoes, ticks and
other arthropods, apply an insect repellent containing DEET
to your skin or clothing.
The risk of malaria for most tourists visiting Peninsular
Malaysia is extremely small. There is insignificant risk in
Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other major cities. However, in
East Malaysia, the risk of malaria is present throughout the
year. Even in these regions, the risk is mainly off the
coastal plains and towards the border areas. Generally,
prophylaxis is recommended for those visiting Sabah or
Sarawak.
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YELLOW FEVER
There is no risk of yellow fever in Malaysia. A certificate
of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry if you are
coming from countries in South America or sub-Saharan
Africa.
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FOOD
Generally, the level of food hygiene throughout the country
is high. However, make sure your food and drinking water are
safe. Food from street vendors should be treated with care.
Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly)
drinks in cans or bottles. If possible, avoid tap water,
fountain drinks, and ice cubes. Bring along iodine tablets
and portable water filters to purify water if bottled water
is not available. Also, wash your hands often with soap and
water. As an extra precaution, bring along anti-diarrhoea
medication and an antibiotic prescribed by your doctor to
self-treat moderate to severe diarrhoea.
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VACCINATIONS
Recommended vaccines:
Poliomyelitis
(childhood booster)
Tetanus
(childhood booster)
Typhoid
(food & water borne diseases)
Hepatitis
A (food & water borne diseases)
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| For
those venturing outside cities and towns, further
recommended vaccines are Hepatitis B, Rabies, Japanese B
Encephalitis, Tuberculosis and Meningitis. For those
visiting Sabah and Sarawak, Malaria prophylaxis is strongly
recommended. |
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