Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) (5)
about Kasma Loha-unchit's Thailand Trips
FAQ's: General questions | Travel Concerns | Accommodations | Meals | Medical Concerns | Miscellaneous || 1-page FAQs (for printing)
Medical Concerns
Nothing in these FAQ's should be construed as medical advice.
Please contact your own physician with your concerns.
What vaccinations will I need?
None are required for travel to Thailand. However, vaccination against hepatitis is recommended, as is a tetanus booster if you have not had one in the past ten years. If you wish to be safe, check with your local health provider.
What about anti-malarials and Mosquitos?
The disease bearing mosquitos are mainly a problem in rain-forested and jungle areas late at night. We will not be in such areas. Whether or not anti-malarials are effective in preventing malaria is a controversial topic. Some doctors are adamant that you take them if you plan to travel to Southeast Asia; others do not believe the drugs currently available are effective in preventing the disease. One of Kasma's friends who took the drugs while traveling in Africa returned with malaria anyway.
The short-term and long-term side effects of anti-malarials may well outweigh their benefits. One trip member permanently damaged his eyesight from taking anti-malarial pills. Others get nauseous throughout the entire trip, not being able to enjoy a good meal or tolerate long drives. Since we will not be trekking into jungle areas late at night where malaria-carrying mosquitoes are active, we are not at risk. In all of Kasma's years of extensive traveling around Thailand, she has never taken anti-malarials and has never contracted malaria. No trip member has ever contracted malaria. Insect repellent, mosquito coils (cheap and plentiful in every marketplace in Thailand) and taking care to put on long-sleeved shirts and pants in the evenings to minimize exposed areas, are less risky preventive measures. Use your discretion. If you are concerned, please check with your health care provider.
Kasma uses a natural, citronella-based repellant called "Sssssting Stop" – it may be available at your natural food store. You may find the following web page of use :
Is the water drinkable?
To be safe, you should drink only bottled water, which is universally available. However, tap water is perfectly safe for brushing your teeth.
How about ice?
Ice cubes are made with drinking water at factories, so they are safe to eat or use in drinks.
What if I get sick?
Often your medical needs can be handled by a pharmacist, who can make recommendations and dispense western and herbal medicines. In addition, medical facilities and hospitals are conveniently located throughout Thailand, so you need not worry about the availability of proper medical care should unexpected emergencies arise. The cost of such services is much lower than at comparable U.S. facilities. You should notify us if you have any ongoing medical concerns.
What about diarrhea?
On some trips this is not a problem for anyone, while other times various people are affected. There are very effective local herbal remedies available, which usually take care of the problem very quickly.
Do I need special medical insurance?
In many cases, the medical insurance you already subscribe to will cover medical expenses during your travels abroad. Because some medical plans require a specific form to be completed by physicians who treat you in the foreign country, you may wish to request your insurance company to supply you with the form before your departure. In any event, do check your medical insurance policy to see what is covered and not covered so that you may decide whether or not to purchase specific travel insurance coverages.
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