Health
There are no immunisation requirements for entry into Myanmar,
except for yellow fever if you have travelled to the country via Africa. The so-called
‘health check’ at the airport involves a cursory glance at your passport to determine
whether you’ve come from an infected zone. If you have, customs may ask to see your
immunisation certificate.
The buzz word
Malaria is a serious disease and endemic in Myanmar. For this reason,
it is advisable to take malarial prophylactics as, without treatment, this insect-borne
disease can be serious. Dengue fever is also spread by mosquito
bites, so if your trip is through a high-risk area, there are everyday avoidance
measures you should take. These include: wearing light-coloured clothing;
using mosquito repellant; avoiding the use of scented perfumes
and aftershave; and taking a mosquito net.
Hot, hot, hot
The sun in Myanmar can be scorching, with the heat most intense in the ancient city
of Mandalay from March to April. With the temperature often rising up to 40c in
Yangon (the capital of Myanmar), Mandalay and Bagan (the most famous archaeological
site), it’s wise to wear 30+ sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat and light, long-sleeved
clothing. It’s also essential to stay hydrated.
Water wise
The No. 1 rule when it comes to maintaining your health in Myanmar is: don’t
drink the tap water. If you don’t know for certain the water is safe,
you must err on the side of caution and avoid it altogether. The easiest way to
purify water is to boil it thoroughly for 10 minutes. Alternatively, bottled water
is available from hotels, restaurants, markets and shops.
Food for thought
When it comes to food, opt to eat at restaurants that look clean and well run and
which are crammed with travellers or locals or both. Don’t eat raw vegetables or
salad and only eat fruits that you can peel or cut yourself. If you experience headaches
or swollen feet and hands after eating at a restaurant, it’s likely that Monosodium
Glutamate (known locally as ‘ajinomoto’) has been added to your food.
Tell the wait staff ‘no MSG’ before you order your food.
Medical help
If you are on medication, you should take an adequate supply and a valid prescription
in case you require replacements. A compact medical kit is also
a great idea. Stock up with everything from the basics – such as Band-Aids, tweezers,
a thermometer and antiseptic – to antibiotics, painkillers, Imodium (for diarrhoea),
rehydration packs and water purification tablets. If you do require emergency treatment,
visit a 24-hour medical clinic, many of which are staffed with English-speaking
doctors. It’s also recommended that visitors to Myanmar take out a
comprehensive travel insurance
policy that covers everything from basic medical issues to full evacuation costs.