Malaysia - Health

Some tropical illnesses are prevalent in Malaysia and travelers should seek medical advice regarding any recommended vaccinations before traveling. Hepatitis A and B are common, as is dengue fever, which has no vaccination or immunization. There has been an increase in cases of dengue fever since January 2005. Malaria risks are isolated to the inland regions; the exception is Sabah, where there is an all-year risk. Visitors should stick to bottled water and avoid uncooked meat, fish and vegetables, unpeeled fruit, ice, and salads. A further health hazard in Malaysia is smoke haze and air pollution, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, which has the worst air quality in Asia with very high Benzene pollution levels. This could aggravate cardiac or respiratory problems. The hospitals in Kuala Lumpur and other cities are of a high standard. Medical insurance is recommended. Travelers older than one year coming from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.