With the exception of Yellow Fever, for those travelling
from an infected area, no vaccinations are required as a condition of entry to
Bhutan. However, the decision to avoid medical precautions should either be
based on medical advice from your practitioner, or personal acceptance of risk.
If planning to travel without medical protection, it
may also be prudent to check for pre-qualifying conditions with regard to
ignoring medical advice in your travel insurance policy.
Currently recommended vaccines may include Diphtheria,
Tetanus, Hepatitis A and B, Japanese B Encephalitis, Meningitis, Polio, Rabies,
Tuberculosis and Typhoid, with a course of anti-malarials also highly
advised. As Dengue Fever is also borne by mosquitoes, it is advised to use
repellents and wear long sleeves and trousers at vulnerable times and places.
Trekkers visiting Bhutan intending to travel upward of
3,000 metres should also be aware of the potential problems of altitude sickness
and sub-zero temperatures.
Visitors should avoid drinking tap water, or water from
the wild, and should use only bottled water, even for brushing teeth. In common
with many other parts of the world, it pays to examine the bottle top seals of
bottled water to ensure these have not been re-filled by unscrupulous traders.
Health Care is provided in most of the major towns by the
local hospital and is free. There are likewise shops in most centres that will
sell medicines without prescription.
However, if you rely on particular medication or other
health related products it is better to bring an adequate supply with you when
you travel. It is also recommended to have a dental check prior to travelling
to avoid the unforeseen spoiling your holiday.