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Thailand Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria |
Yes |
| Hepatitis A |
Sometimes |
| Malaria |
Sometimes |
| Rabies |
Sometimes |
| Tetanus |
Yes |
| Typhoid |
Sometimes |
| Yellow Fever |
No* |
Thailand has a well-developed healthcare system, and visitors will find a wide range of medical facilities, from small local clinics to large international-standard hospitals. Major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Pattaya have modern private hospitals with English-speaking staff, advanced equipment and efficient services. These hospitals are often the preferred choice for travellers seeking treatment, although costs can be higher than in public facilities.
Public hospitals are available across the country and offer competent care at more affordable rates, though waiting times may be longer and English may not always be widely spoken outside main cities. In smaller towns and rural areas, clinics and community hospitals provide basic medical services, but serious conditions are usually referred to larger provincial hospitals.
Visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment, hospital stays and emergency evacuation, as private care can be expensive for uninsured patients. Pharmacies are common in towns and cities, and many medicines can be purchased over the counter, though it is advisable to consult a pharmacist or doctor before taking unfamiliar medication.
For emergencies, the general hotline is 1669, which connects to medical and ambulance services. Many private hospitals also operate their own emergency numbers and can arrange direct transport. Travellers staying in hotels or resorts can usually ask reception staff for help contacting the nearest clinic or hospital.
Tap water in Thailand is not considered safe to drink, so visitors should use bottled or filtered water. Most hotels and better restaurants use purified ice, which is generally safe, but caution is sensible when ordering iced drinks from small roadside stalls. As with many countries in the region, the safest approach is to stick to water that is sealed, boiled or properly filtered.
Food is generally safe when freshly cooked, and Thailand's street food culture is a highlight for many travellers. Busy stalls tend to maintain good turnover of ingredients, reducing the risk of spoilage. However, it is best to avoid raw or undercooked meats and seafood in places where hygiene is uncertain, and to be cautious with pre-prepared salads or cut fruit sold from open trays.
Dairy products are widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores, especially in urban areas, and most branded items are pasteurised. Visitors with dietary restrictions or sensitivities should check packaging carefully, as labelling standards can vary. Those with food allergies should communicate clearly, especially as nuts, shellfish and chilli are common in many dishes.
Thailand is generally safe for visitors, but some practical precautions can help avoid problems. Petty theft can occur in crowded places such as markets, bus stations and popular tourist areas, so it is sensible to keep valuables secure and be alert in busy surroundings. Scams occasionally target tourists, particularly around major attractions and transport hubs; common examples include inflated taxi fares, unsolicited "assistance" from strangers, and offers that seem unusually cheap.
Road safety is a significant concern, especially for motorbike riders. Helmets are compulsory and should be worn at all times. Travellers should avoid riding without proper experience, and think carefully before renting motorbikes in areas with steep or uneven roads.
Beach and water safety vary by region and season. Strong currents and changing tides can create hazardous conditions, particularly during the monsoon months on both coasts. Warning flags are used on many beaches, and paying attention to local advice is important. When participating in water sports or boat trips, choose reputable operators with proper safety equipment.
Wildlife encounters are rare in cities but more common in rural areas and national parks. Monkeys can behave unpredictably, and it is best to avoid feeding or approaching them. Jellyfish, including box jellyfish, may appear in coastal waters at certain times of year, notably around Phuket, Samui and Krabi; designated swimming areas often provide warnings when risks are higher.
As in many tropical countries, mosquitoes are present, particularly in the rainy season. Using repellent, wearing long sleeves in the evenings and staying in accommodation with screens or air-conditioning can reduce the risk of bites.
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