Health and vaccines in Cambodia

Vaccines in Cambodia

No vaccinations are officially mandatory or essential in Cambodia. However, the Pasteur Institute recommends the following vaccinations:

1. Japanese Encephalitis: For anyone staying in rural areas, especially near rice fields. It is recommended for extended stays in rural areas or for expatriates.
2. Yellow Fever: For individuals who have never been vaccinated and have previously traveled to Africa or South America.
3. Hepatitis A: Recommended for travelers who may experience limited hygiene conditions.
4. Hepatitis B: For those who may be engaging in unprotected sexual activities.
5. Malaria: Preventative treatment for mosquito bites carrying disease.
6. Rabies: Recommended for adventurous or isolated travelers.
7. Typhoid: Transmitted via contaminated water, food, or inadequate hand washing.

First Aid Kit

Most of the medications available in Cambodia come from China, and their contents or dosages may not always be known. However, French medications, like Doliprane, are available in urban pharmacies. It is still advisable to bring a personal first aid kit, especially if traveling to rural areas. Below is a list of recommended medications to take with you when traveling to Cambodia:

1. Paracetamol, Aspirin, and/or Ibuprofen: For pain and fever (depending on your personal preferences).
2. Throat Lozenges: With pollution and temperature changes due to air conditioning, catching a cold is common.
3. Anti-diarrheal and Laxatives: Your stomach may not be accustomed to Asian food, which can cause digestive issues.
4. Eye Drops: Phnom Penh, for example, has a lot of dust; if you have sensitive eyes, this is essential!
5. Mosquito Repellent and Antihistamine Creams: For insect bites and allergic reactions.
6. Antihistamine Tablets: For colds, allergies, insect bites, or motion sickness.
7. Small First Aid Kit (sterile gauze, bandages, small scissors, tweezers, Betadine, etc.) : Not essential unless trekking or exploring rural areas.
8. Thermometer: If you feel unwell, it is important to monitor your temperature proactively.
9. Sunscreen (SPF 50) and Biafine: If you are prone to sunburn, the UV index in Cambodia is very high, and sunburns can happen to anyone, even if you’re not usually prone to it.
10. Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Antifungal Creams: Due to the high humidity.

Hospitalization and Travel Insurance

It is important to note that hospitals and clinics in Cambodia do not provide the same level of care. In the case of a serious condition or accident, you will need to travel to Bangkok to receive more appropriate treatment.

For this reason, it is essential to carry a minimum amount of medical supplies and to take out travel insurance in case you need hospitalization or repatriation. Many credit cards (Visa or others) offer travel insurance if used to purchase your flight ticket. Be sure to inquire in advance about what is covered to avoid surprises, or to avoid purchasing additional insurance that offers identical coverage.

In case you find yourself in such a situation, remember to remain calm (easier said than done) and contact your embassy or consulate, and then your insurance company.