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There are a many health risks associated with travel to India
and although no vaccinations are required for entry into India,
travellers should take medical advice on vaccinations at least
three weeks before departure. Outbreaks of Dengue fever and
Chikungunya virus occur, both being transmitted by mosquitoes.
Malaria outbreaks are common in areas above 6,562 feet (2,000m),
particularly in the north-east of the country. Outbreaks of cholera
occur frequently. Travellers from an infected area should hold a
yellow fever certificate. Food poisoning is a risk in India: all
water and ice should be regarded as contaminated, and visitors
should drink only bottled water and ensure that the seal on the
bottle is intact. Meat and fish should be regarded as suspect in
all but the best restaurants, and should always be well cooked and
served hot. Salads and unpeeled fruit should be avoided. Health
facilities are adequate in the larger cities, but limited in rural
areas. Travellers should have medical insurance, and bringing a
standard first-aid kit complete with a course of general
antibiotics is advisable. Diarrhea is common amoung travellers to
India and is best treated with re-hydration salts; however, if
symptoms persist for more than two days visiting a private hospital
is recommended. Bird flu has been a problem in the past and
travellers should take the necessary precautions when eating
poultry and egg dishes. Rabies is also a hazard, and should you get
bitten by a dog, cat or rat it is best to consult a medical
practitioner immediately. Travellers to the Himalayan Mountains
should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness.
View information on diseases: Rabies, Malaria, Dengue Fever, Cholera, Typhoid fever
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