Thailand - Health

The standard of medical care varies throughout Thailand. In some of the big cities you will be able to find private hospitals with an international standard of care. However everyone of these hospitals will ask for confirmation of travel insurance before being admitted. Remember the golden rule of travel. If you can't afford travel insurance then you can't afford to travel. Always check with your local General Practitioner before travelling to another country.

Avian Influenza
Thailand has had a few cases of this virus. If you are planning to stay in Thailand for an extended period of time (e.g. to become a permanent resident) then it is advised that you have easy access to influenza antivirus treatment. The chances of you contracting the virus are low but the longer you stay in the country the greater your risk of exposure.
If you are staying in Thailand for a short period of time then the risk of exposure is minimal. Just be advised of certain things. If the virus mutates and becomes transmutable from human to human then the Thai government is likely to restrict travel in an attempt to minimise the impact. Make sure you are prepared.

Malaria
Malaria is not common in the major cities. However be advised that it can be contracted in the rural areas in the north. Especially the areas along the Cambodian and Laos borders. Make sure you talk to a GP and get malaria tablets before you go. This is a serious and potentially fatal disease. It is spread via mosquito bites and symptoms include headaches, fever, sweating, diarrhoea and abdominal pains. Outbreaks do occur in the north so take caution.

Rabies
Many animals can be infected, such as dogs, cats, bats, and monkeys. The saliva is the contagious agent. Any bites or even licking by an animal should be washed thoroughly and immediately. If you are bitten by a stray dog then seek medical help immediately. Failure to do so may result in death.
Be wary of stray dogs at bus terminals.

Dengue Fever
Dengue Fever is most common around urban areas. It is spread by mosquito bites. The symptoms are headaches, high fevers, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. If you become infected you may find a rash of little red dots on your skin several days after. If youa re unsure of whether you have it, you can always get a blood test from a hospital. Asprin should be avoided if you believe you have become infected. There is currently no vaccine

HIV/AIDS
The risk of HIV/AIDS in Thailand is high. So take precautions when engaged in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.