Virtual Bangladesh : Visitor's Health Requirements

Health facilities aren't the best in the world in Bangladesh and it is recommended that you take all commonsense precautions before, during and after your visit.

I would recommend that you do take a good comprehensive medical insurance. But, be not afraid, though we may not have the best of facilities, we do have some very talented and highly qualified physicians.

A yellow fever certificate is required of all persons (including infants) arriving by air or sea within six days of departure from an infected area, or a country with infection in any part, or a country where the WHO judges yellow fever to be endemic or present; or has been in such an area in transit; or has come by an aircraft which has come from such an area and has not been properly disinfected. Those arriving without a required certificate will be detained in quarantine for six days.

Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is no longer a condition of entry to Bangladesh. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness. See the Health appendix.

Malaria risks exist throughout the year in the whole country with the exception of Dhaka City. The malignant falciparum form is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine and resistant to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. Seek advice on recommended prophylaxis at least one month before travelling.

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with pure water. Avoid all dairy products. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If bitten abroad seek medical advice without delay.

More details can be obtained from the health section of this site.