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Country Guide > South-East Asia > East Timor | |
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Health
1 A yellow fever vaccination certificate is advisable for travellers coming from infected areas. The countries and areas included in the yellow fever endemic zones are considered by East Timor as infected areas. For a map of yellow fever endemic zones, see the Health appendix. 2 Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is no longer a condition of entry to East Timor. 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. 3 Poliomyelitis is endemic. Typhoid occurs frequently. 4 Malaria risk exists throughout the year. Some resistance to chloroquine has been reported. Other risks Dengue fever (there was a particularly large outbreak of this in 2005) and Japanese encephalitis occur. Tuberculosis and hepatitis A are prevalent and rabies may also be present. Food & drink All water should be regarded as a potential health risk. 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 dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Health care Medical services in East Timor are extemely limited. There are currently no optical or dental services. It is essential to take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance which includes emergency repatriation cover. |