Travel Health: There are a number of health risks associated with travel to
Indonesia and medical advice should be taken at least three weeks
before departing. Malaria is a year round risk except in Jakarta,
other large cities and the tourist resorts of Java and Bali. The
dengue fever mosquito is found throughout Indonesia and visitors
should be aware of a significant increase in reported cases of
dengue fever throughout all the country's provinces during the
rainy season. Outbreaks of chikungunya fever, also from mosquitoes,
have occurred regularly in Indonesia in recent years. Visitors to
Java and Sumatra are advised to ensure all polio inoculations are
up to date before travel. Outbreaks of bird flu have also occurred
and many people have died from the disease; Indonesia has the
world's highest death toll from the virus. Travellers are not at
risk but are advised to avoid close contact with caged, domestic
and wild birds, and ensure that all eggs or poultry dishes are
thoroughly cooked as a precaution. Outbreaks of Anthrax and leprosy
occur. Travellers' diarrhoea is a major risk; visitors should only
drink sealed bottled water and avoid dairy products, uncooked meat,
salads and unpeeled fruit. Poor sanitation and eating contaminated
food can increase the risk of cholera, typhoid and other diseases.
The standard of local medical care is poor and very expensive. It
is essential that you take out full medical and travel insurance
covering all eventualities. A yellow fever certificate is required
from those travelling from infected areas.
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