Risk / Health Info for Cambodia

What shots do I need for Cambodia?

Before you go to Cambodia, make sure your shots are up to date, including measles and rabies. Other vaccinations are recommended, including hepatitis A and typhoid, two unpleasant gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated water and food.

Protect yourself against hepatitis B if you plan to visit Cambodia frequently or stay a long time. It is spread by contact with infected blood or body fluid, so hep B shots are recommended for people who work in healthcare or dentistry. Hepatitis B can also be spread by unprotected sex, dirty needles (including for tattooing or piercing), and invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

What about mosquito-borne illnesses in Cambodia?

You can get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, which can be contracted if you visit Cambodia between May and October, especially if you visit rural areas and rice farms.

Other mosquito-borne illnesses endemic to Cambodia are malaria, chikungunya, dengue fever, lymphatic filariasis and Zika. Women who are pregnant or considering getting pregnant might choose to avoid travelling there. Avoid mosquito bites by wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible, using a reliable insect repellent, and sleeping under a net or in air-conditioned or screened accommodation where possible. At least six weeks before you leave for Cambodia, talk to your Canadian Travel Clinic adviser about anti-malaria pills.

Could I catch bird flu in Cambodia?

There is a low risk of avian influenza in Cambodia. The risk of human-to-human transmission is very low. Health Canada recommends reducing the risk of bird flu by avoiding exposure to dead or live poultry and not visiting markets where poultry is sold, and taking the same steps you use to avoid the regular flu: wash your hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available, and always practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette.

How else can I protect myself from illness?

When you’re in Cambodia, use commercially bottled water in drinks and ice cubes. Avoid “travellers’ diarrhea” by sticking to foods you can peel or have been cooked or boiled.

Hospitals in Cambodia

Cambodia has inadequate healthcare facilities, except for some Thai-run hospitals in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You may be required to pay cash or guarantee your insurance coverage. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers all medical expenses, including medical evacuation to Thailand or Singapore if needed. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information before you leave for Cambodia.

Dengue fever in Cambodia

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

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Cambodia 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 Cambodia

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 Cambodia. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Cambodia

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