Christmas in Thailand Tourists have to protect themselves from malaria

Deadly Disease: Thailand vacationers need to protect themselves from malaria
Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of Germans fly to the tropical paradise every year. Especially in winter and especially during the Christmas season, there is a lot going on to enjoy the heat on the beach. However, all tourists should protect themselves from health hazards. In the Asian state, dangerous tropical diseases such as malaria are common.

Dangerous diseases in the tropical paradise
White beaches, ancient temples, wonderful food: millions of tourists travel to Thailand every year. Unfortunately, there are also some health threats in the Southeast Asian country. Thus, at the beginning of the year, the spread of the tropical disease melioidosis had been reported, which can be fatal. The Mers virus has also been detected in Thailand. But tourists are most worried about malaria, especially because resistant pathogens are widespread in Southeast Asia.

Every year millions of tourists travel to tropical paradise Thailand. At the start of the high season, authorities now warn against the threat of malaria in the country. Vacationers should protect themselves. (Image: carloscastilla / fotolia.com)

Malaria danger in Thailand
At the start of the high season in Southeast Asia, Thailand's authorities are warning tourists about the malaria threat. The infectious disease is transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.

According to news agency dpa, Vichan Pawan, spokesman for the Thai health authority, said: "The Anopheles mosquitoes are found mainly in the forests of Kanchanaburi province bordering Myanmar." However, there is also a risk of contagion in other regions, including Chiangrai in the north and Pattani in the south.

According to the figures, in 2016 almost 17,000 people in Thailand suffer from malaria, including around 5,000 tourists. Two people died.

Less infections
As reported, the situation has significantly improved in recent years, including the use of insect repellent products around residential areas and hotels, as well as the better education of the public and visitors.

Accordingly, the number of infections per year has fallen significantly. There are 300 malaria-specialized hospitals across the country.

Protection against mosquito bites
A malaria vaccine is not available. Vacationers should protect themselves with long-sleeved clothing and insect repellent. Depending on the accommodation, a mosquito net may be useful. It should be noted that the Anopheles mosquito almost invariably stings at dusk or after sunset. (Ad)