Risk / Health Info for Myanmar

What vaccines do I need for a trip to Myanmar?

Global Travel Clinics can help you to organise all the immunisations for travel in Burma.

Because of sanitation problems infections like hepatitis A and cholera are a risk in Burma. A vaccine for hepatitis A are recommended before you travel. When in Myanmar drink bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks.

Another vaccine to have before you go to Myanmar is against Japanese encephalitis. This disease is spread by mosquitoes found in rice paddies. If you are planning a stay in rural Myanmar, consider getting a vaccine for Japanese encephalitis.

Good quality healthcare is hard to find outside Rangoon and Mandalay. You should expect to pay in cash up front for treatment. Emergency dental work and other intrusive procedures are best avoided because of poor hygiene standards and you risk infections such as HIV and hepatitis B.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office warns that there have been cases of avian influenza (bird flu) in Myanmar. You can reduce the risk by avoiding poultry markets and contact with birds.

If you will be working with animals in Myanmar, consider getting vaccinated against rabies.

Altitude in Myanmar

Parts of Myanmar are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Dengue fever in Myanmar

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Myanmar. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Myanmar

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Myanmar at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Schistosomiasis in Myanmar

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Myanmar. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

polio in Myanmar

Zika in Myanmar

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Myanmar. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Myanmar. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.