Nepal is a country that deserves a place in everybody’s travel wishlist. However, as beautiful as it is, a few diseases that are not so prevalent in other countries are common here. This is definitely not a reason to not come though.
At Swacon International Hospital, our core philosophy is “Prevention First”. As such, we highly recommend all foreign travelers get immunized for common diseases for their trip to Nepal.
Listed below are some diseases that it is recommended you get immunized for.
1. General Vaccines
These include common vaccines such as MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) and DPT (Diphtheria-Pertussis-Tetanus) boosters, Polio vaccine, Chicken Pox vaccine, and of course, your yearly flu shots.
These shots should help you avoid most common diseases in Nepal.
2. Hepatitis A & Typhoid
These diseases are communicated through contaminated food and water. Due to the differing qualities of food available in Nepal, it has high risk of contraction amongst travelers.
It is highly recommended that most travelers coming to Nepal get immunized for these diseases, especially if you are visiting remote or rural areas, and/or like to try out local delicacies.
3. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B can occur due to sexual contact, needles, and blood transfusions.
It is recommended that you get immunized for Hepatitis B if you plan to engage in any sexual activities, get tattoos or piercings, or if you’re planning to go through any medical procedures while in Nepal.
4. Malaria & Japanese Encephalitis
Malaria and Japanese Encephalitis are mosquito-borne diseases. Transmitted through the bite of mosquitoes that carry the microbes responsible for diseases, these are serious and can lead to serious complications, and can also be fatal.
These immunizations are especially important if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors during the summer, or if you are travelling to the south of Nepal (the Terai region).
5. Rabies
Rabies is carried by infected mammals, such as dogs and bats. The virus is present in the saliva of infected mammals, and transmitted through their bites. It presents symptoms like fever, hydrophobia, and mania, amongst others.
It is recommended that travelers get immunized for rabies if they are planning any activity that puts them in prolonged proximity around bats (such as spelunking or cave explorations), dogs and other mammals. It is also recommended if you’re planning on a long trip to Nepal.
Children should especially get vaccinated for Rabies, since they are more prone to play with animals than adults, and might not report any bites that occur.
6. Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever is not present in Nepal. However, the Government of Nepal requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if and only if you’re travelling to Nepal from a country that does have the risk of Yellow Fever.
Getting immunizations is heavily dependent upon your travel itinerary. Depending upon where you travel and what activities you are planning to do, some immunizations may have more priority than others.
Get immunized in Nepal
At Swacon Hospital, we can immunize you as per your needs. Our team of medical experts are also experienced in Travel Medicine should you suffer from any illness while travelling or trekking in Nepal.
To book a consultation please call us at +977-1-4478105 or email us at info@swaconhospital.com.
Health for All