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Nepal remains a polpular destination - for trekkers wanting to experience the stunning beauty of the Himalayas, as
well as for its ancient Hindu and Buddhist culture, plus the exotic wildlife of Chitwan national park in the lowlands.
Kathmandu the chaotic capital, is the arrival hub for most.
The following information provides some broad and general guidelines about health risks and recommendations for
this destination.This should not be taken as a substitute for personal consultation with a doctor with experience in
travel health.
Respiratory Infections
Many trekkers seem to suffer respiratory infections, which are often contracted in Kathmandu. This is probably due to air
pollution combined with trekkers from around the world bringing new viruses to the crowded environment of the city.
Viral infections are often complicated by bacterial bronchitis or pneumonia, requiring antibiotic treatment, so trekkers
should consider carrying antibiotics specifically to treat these infections as they will be away from medical care. Those
with underlying respiratory disease are particularly at risk. The flu vaccine is often recommended.
Altitude Sickness
High altitude trekkers (those going above 2700m) need to be informed about the risks, prevention and treatment of
altitude sickness, which range from inconvenient mild symptoms to more severe forms affecting the lungs and brain,
which can be life threatening. Certain trekking itineraries (rapid ascent) pose higher risk and some individuals are more
prone. Many trekkers carry specific medication to prevent and treat altitude sickness, and some group treks carry
enclosed pressure bags with a foot pump for immediate relief of symptoms.
For more severe forms, immediate rapid descent, evacuation by helicopter to Kathmandu and specialised medical
treatment may be lifesaving.
The Himalayan Rescue Association provides free lectures on altitude sickness in Kathmandu.
Malaria
Malaria is not a risk for most travellers in Nepal as Kathmandu and all the main trekking routes are malaria free. Whilst
there is some theoretic risk in the lowlands of Chitwan National Park in the wet season, no cases have occurred in
travellers.
Security Issues
Political instability has been an issue in Nepal over recent years and demonstrations are best avoided. Keep an eye on the
Australian Governments Smart Traveller website for the latest advice.
Vaccinations
Routine Vaccinations for all travellers
All international travellers should be up to date or immune to the following as these are transmissable diseases which
may have serious complications:
Measles
Chickenpox
Influenza - especially for the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions
In addition a tetanus booster if more than 5- 10 years since last vaccinated is advisable to avoid having to get a booster
shot in Nepal in the event of a tetanus prone wound
Recommen ded Vaccinations for most travellers to Nepal
Hepatitis A is a food and water borne virus that infects the liver and causes jaundice. Many people in the developing
world have natural immunity, but travellers generally do not. The vaccine is very safe and effective, a single injection
providing immediate protection for 6-12 months, after which a booster shot provides long-term immunity.
Hepatitis B is a blood borne virus, but may also be sexually transmitted. Accidents, injuries and sometimes even medical
treatment in the developing world can expose travellers to this disease. Hepatitis B is highly infectious and can lead to
chronic liver disease and liver cancer. All children and young adults born since 1990 in Australia have generally been
vaccinated
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection which is caught through ingesting contaminated food and water. Risk is high in
Nepal. Resistance to common antibiotics is also widespread so treatment has become more difficult.