Bhutan

Have a safe trip to Bhutan with travel vaccines and advice from medical professionals.

Travel health and safety for Bhutan 🇧🇹

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, offers a travel experience defined by serenity, spirituality, and unspoiled natural beauty. Nestled in the Himalayas, this kingdom strikes a balance between ancient traditions and a deep commitment to environmental preservation and well-being. From the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery to the lush valleys of Punakha and the colourful festivals that fill its dzongs, Bhutan captivates travellers seeking both adventure and mindfulness.

While Bhutan is known for its clean air and welcoming people, its high altitude and remote landscapes mean travellers should be mindful of health and safety considerations. With proper preparation, you can experience Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage in comfort and peace.

Travel Immunizations for Bhutan

What vaccinations do I need for Bhutan? Get all the information and vaccine injections you need to minimize travel health risks in Bhutan.

Hepatitis A virus can cause liver disease, and in rare cases, liver failure and death.

  • Can be spread by fecal-oral transmission, consuming contaminated food or water, or close, personal contact with an infected person.
  • Symptoms may range from mild to severe, including fatigue, jaundice, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and joint pain.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets the liver and may cause chronic infections. 

  • Its primary mode of transmission is through direct blood-to-blood contact with an infected person. It can also be transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing needles.
  • Symptoms may range from mild to severe, including fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting and joint pain.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.

  • Visitors to areas experiencing a JE outbreak should also consider vaccination.  
  • Risk increases for individuals engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitoes.

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted through animal bites.  

  • Symptoms may initially include fever, headache, and discomfort at the bite site, progressing to more severe neurological symptoms. Rabies is fatal if it is not treated before symptoms develop.
  • Rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection typically transmitted through contaminated food and water.  

  • Typhoid vaccine is available in both injectable and oral forms and provides protection against typhoid fever.    
  • Symptoms of typhoid fever include a high fever, headache, weakness, fatigue, stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea, loss of appetite, and a rose-colored rash on the chest and abdomen. 

Chikungunya infections are caused by the chikungunya virus, which is spread by infected mosquitoes.

  • Symptoms may include fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling and rash. 
  • No specific treatment is available for someone infected with Chikungunya. Serious infections can result in long-term joint pain and even death.
  • In Canada, the vaccines to prevent chikungunya are authorized for people aged 18 and older. It is not recommended for those 65 and older.

We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.

Health Canada strongly advises travelers ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date, including:

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Guards against the varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox.

Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP)

Protects against three different bacterial infections.

Flu (Influenza)

Vaccination against seasonal influenza strains is essential.

Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Provides immunity against all three diseases in one shot.

Polio

Essential for guarding against the poliovirus.

Shingles

Offers protection against a viral infection that causes painful rashes.

COVID-19

The ongoing pandemic necessitates adherence to vaccination guidelines and preventive measures.

Health Problems in Bhutan / Health Canada Recommendations

Most common illness for travelers, from consuming contaminated food & water

  • Affects up to 70% of travelers and risks minimized with good hygiene and safe food/drink choices (eg. avoid raw foods, ice in drinks).
  • Symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, fever, bloating.

Altitude sickness is a condition that can occur when individuals ascend to high altitudes too quickly, typically above 8,000 feet (2400 m).   

  • The most common and mildest form of altitude sickness is acute mountain sickness (AMS) 

  • Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when individuals ascend to high altitudes too quickly, typically above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) 

  • Rapid ascent to high altitudes without proper acclimatization is the primary risk factor. Other factors include a previous history of altitude sickness, genetic predisposition, respiratory conditions, and underlying cardiovascular diseases. 

  • Symptoms can include, headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping.   

Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.

  • Symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, similar to the flu. Without treatment, malaria can cause severe illness and death.
  • The use of anti-malarials, along with insect repellant containing DEET, and light weight loose fitting clothing to cover the skin can help in prevention of malaria.

Insect Bite Prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. Cover up and use insect repellents to protect against infection.     

  • Japanese Encephalitis is a viral infection spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
    • Visitors to areas experiencing a JE outbreak should also consider vaccination.

    • Risk increases for individuals engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitoes.

  • Dengue: Symptoms include high-grade fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, and nausea/vomiting.
  • Chikungunya: Symptoms include joint pains, fever, rash, and headache. 

Over the Counter Medications for Travel to Bhutan

Pain Relief

Medications such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) can be helpful for managing headaches, muscle pain, or fever. 

Anti-Diarrheal Medications

It’s advisable to carry over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (e.g., Imodium) to treat mild cases of traveler’s diarrhea. However, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if diarrhea persists or worsens. 

Antacids

Antacids like Tums or Pepto-Bismol can provide relief from indigestion or heartburn, which can sometimes occur when trying new foods or experiencing changes in diet during travel. 

Allergy Medications

If you have known allergies, carrying antihistamines like cetirizine(e.g., Reactine) or diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl) can help manage allergic reactions to environmental allergens or insect bites. 

Motion Sickness Medications

If you are prone to motion sickness, consider carrying medication like dimenhydrinate (e.g., Gravol) to alleviate symptoms during long journeys or when traveling by car, train, or boat.

Sun Protection

It is essential to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing. 

How Good is Healthcare in Bhutan? Medical Services and Facilities in Bhutan:

  • The quality of healthcare varies throughout the country, with basic healthcare available in Thimphu and Paro, and the best option for urgent medical care at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu.
  • You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.
  • Be sure to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Consulate Assistance in Bhutan

Street Address: 7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India

Telephone: +91 11 4178 2000

Email: india.consular@international.gc.ca

Website: https://www.Canada.ca/Canada-And-India

We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the provided information, however, it is not feasible for us to update daily. Please book a virtual consultation with one of our Travel Medicine Professionals for current, personalized advice and answers to any questions you may have.

In case of emergency, dial:
  • 112  Ambulance
  • 113 Police

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