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Tropical Health
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.
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.
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.
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.
VACCINATIONS
Recommended vaccines:
Poliomyelitis (childhood booster)
Tetanus (childhood booster)
Typhoid (food & water borne diseases)
Hepatitis A (food & water borne diseases)
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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