Before heading out on your adventure to Sri Lanka, it is essential to take adequate health precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. In this article, we will explore recommended vaccinations, precautions to take, and medical services available in Sri Lanka.
Recommended Vaccinations:
Before traveling to Sri Lanka, it is strongly recommended to consult a healthcare professional for advice on necessary vaccinations. Although no vaccinations are required to enter the country, some are recommended to protect against common diseases:
- Hepatitis A and B: These vaccines are recommended for all travelers due to the risk of contamination from contaminated water or food.
- Typhoid: Typhoid is a disease transmitted by contaminated water and food. A vaccine can offer protection against this infection.
- Japanese encephalitis: If you plan to spend a lot of time in rural areas, it is recommended that you get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, which is transmitted by mosquitoes.
- Rabies: If you plan to have close contact with animals, including dogs and bats, rabies vaccination may be recommended.
Precautions to take:
In addition to vaccinations, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid illness and infection during your stay in Sri Lanka:
- Drinking water: Be sure to drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes in drinks. Also avoid eating raw, unpeeled fruits and vegetables, as well as raw or undercooked seafood.
- Protection against mosquitoes: Use mosquito repellents and wear long clothing to protect yourself against mosquito bites, especially in the evening.
- Personal hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and clean water, especially before eating or handling food.
- Sun Protection: Due to Sri Lanka's tropical climate, it is essential to protect yourself against sunburn by using sunscreen with a high protection factor.
Medical Services:
In the event of a medical emergency in Sri Lanka, there are several options for obtaining medical help:
- Hospitals: Major cities like Colombo, Kandy and Galle have well-equipped hospitals with competent medical staff.
- Private Clinics: There are also many private clinics throughout the country, offering quality medical services for travelers.
- Travel Insurance: It is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance before leaving to cover medical expenses in the event of an emergency.