Bhutan and health

Health in Bhutan - Check your immunisation pass

Before travelling to Bhutan, take your vaccination certificate with you and check that your vaccinations are up to date. The standard vaccinations against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough recommended by the Robert Koch Institute are recommended for Bhutan in terms of health.

If the last tetanus vaccination was more than 10 years ago, it is high time to repeat the vaccination. As in all Asian countries, vaccination against hepatitis A & B is recommended for your health. Vaccination against typhoid is also recommended.

If you regularly take medication, make sure you have an appropriate supply and read the package leaflet. If you wear glasses, it is advisable to pack a spare pair or contact lenses.

Prevention is the best protection for your health in Bhutan

Apart from non-medicinal preventive measures such as those for malaria, there is not much else that can be done to minimise the risk of dengue fever. This is transmitted by diurnal mosquitoes, especially during the rainy season. The health risk of malaria is particularly high in the southern lowlands.

The risk decreases significantly towards the north. Health issues in Bhutan such as protection against rabies, Japanese encephalitis and tuberculosis are best clarified directly with your doctor. In summer, you should pack an insect repellent. Bhutan's harsh climate can lead to colds and sore throats, especially in the mountains.

Hygiene and medical care during your trip to Bhutan

To avoid gastrointestinal illnesses, make sure you maintain perfect hygiene. Always remember that tap water is not of drinking quality. The use of boiled water or bottled water is also recommended for brushing your teeth.

Unfortunately, diarrhoea is not uncommon in Bhutan. Therefore, take care of your health in Bhutan and opt for drinks in their original packaging and refrain from eating raw, uncooked or unpeeled food in Bhutanese cuisine. Adhere to common hygiene measures such as regular hand washing and disinfecting after using the toilet.

Basic medical care is available in Thimphu in any case. Some foreign doctors also practise in the capital of Bhutan. The situation is different in many other parts of the country. Neither medical nor organisational care is comparable to European standards.

We recommend that you take out travel health insurance, including travel repatriation insurance for abroad, before travelling so that you can arrange repatriation if necessary. If you take out insurance in advance and ensure that you are adequately protected, you can enjoy your trip to Bhutan in complete peace of mind.