Risk / Health Info for Bhutan

What shots are required for a trip to Bhutan?

Our travel experts can help you make sure your shots are up to date, including measles, before you go to Bhutan. You should also consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B and typhoid.

Vaccinations against Japanese encephalitis, spread by mosquitoes, are also recommended. There is also a risk of malaria in some parts of Bhutan. Other mosquito-borne illnesses include Zika and dengue fever, so protect yourself by using a reliable insect repellent, wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible and sleeping under a net where possible. At least six weeks before you leave for Bhutan, speak to our experts about your vaccinations and anti-malaria pills.

Although there is no risk of yellow fever in Bhutan, you will need to prove you have been vaccinated. Bring along your certificate or consult a Canadian Travel Clinics expert about how to get one.

Also ask us about advice on how to protect yourself from altitude sickness if you are planning to trek in Bhutan.

Can I catch rabies in Bhutan?

It is possible to get rabies in Bhutan from an infected animal. Make sure your shot is up to date, especially if you will spend time in remote areas or work with animals. Always get immediate medical attention if you are bitten or scratched by an animal, even if you have been vaccinated.

Healthcare in Bhutan

There is a reasonably well-equipped hospital in Thimphu, but elsewhere only basic care in Bhutan. You will need travel insurance and accessible funds to cover emergencies and evacuation if needed. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority before you leave for Bhutan.

The phone number for medical emergencies is 112.

Can I bring medicines into Bhutan?

Always carry a copy of the prescription for any medicines you bring with you to Bhutan, make sure you bring enough to last the whole trip.

Altitude in Bhutan

Parts of Bhutan 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 Bhutan

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Bhutan. 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 Bhutan

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Bhutan 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.

Zika in Bhutan

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Bhutan. 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 Bhutan. 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.