Major FAQ – China
Health & Safety in China
What are the principle health risks?
No country is immune from any health risk. While China has a good healthcare system, there are some diseases to be aware of before/during your travels to China. These are:
AIDS: Growing rapidly. The blood supply is not as safe as in a Western country.
Bronchial and Sinus ailments: There are high rates in cities with highest air pollution rates, especially Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.
Cholera: This is notably present in western China.
Hepatitis A and B: Very common due to poor food storage, handling and cooking in many locations.
Rabies: Rabid dogs are a problem in many rural and semi-urban areas of China. Be cautious and move away from any non-domestic or freely roaming dogs in China.
Typhoid: Consider a vaccination for longer stays and especially if you are an adventurous eater.
Numerous other illnesses and diseases exist, but not in abnormally high or epidemic proportions.
What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?
Consult with your local doctor or a travel health specialist to prepare for your trip to China. Make sure you receive all required shots and vaccinations. Make sure you have tested on TB and taken chest x-rays. You will have to be immunized against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid. Bring the result of your HIV test results with you to China.
If you plan to travel to rural areas of China you should be vaccinated against Japanese Encephalitis and obtain pills to protect yourself against Malaria. If you intend to stay in cities, these are not required. If you plan to travel to western China or Tibet, it is generally recommended to get a Rabies vaccination.
Is the food safe if I buy from a street vendor?
Avoid eating from street vendors. Their preparations do not adhere to any standards, and food they sell could cause stomach cramps if you are fortunate and severe diarrhea if you are unlucky. In China, poor food cooking, preparation and storage, as well as improper cleaning and disinfecting of cooking supplies is very common among street vendors.
How safe is China?
Formal security is very strong in China and most things there follow regulations. Hence, China is one of the safest countries in the world. Of course, petty crime does exist, especially around major urban areas. Fortunately, there have not been any serious crimes committed recently against foreigners. If you are vigilant with prohibiting pick pocketing and purse snatching, you should be fine. Be extra vigilant in crowded places like stations and markets.
You should also not:
- Show off your wallet and valuables.
- Carry all your cash with you at all times, instead keep cash in a safety deposit box in your hotel/homebase.
- Wear flashy jewelry.
- Carry your passport or all your traveler’s checks with you.
- Quarrel and start fights with locals.
- Travel alone in the dark and avoid closed off, dark areas.
- Share your thoughts regarding Chinese politics. Keep any opinions to yourself.
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