Risk / Health Info for Malaysia

In addition to your regular vaccines, before you go to Malaysia consult your Canadian Travel Clinic adviser about protecting yourself against hepatitis A and B, cholera, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis.

Visitors to Malaysia should also protect themselves from mosquito bites, as Zika, malaria and dengue fever are present. At least six weeks before you go, visit your local Canadian Travel Clinic for anti-malarial protection. And protect yourself from bug bites by using a reliable insect repellent, covering up as much as possible, and sleeping in air-conditioned or screened accommodation or under a net.

Air pollution is carefully monitored in Malaysia especially given the proximity to Indonesia, where forest fires can affect air quality. People with respiratory conditions may be affected.

Malaysia has good medical facilities in major cities, although the standards may be lower in remote areas. You may be required to pay on the spot. Make sure you have travel insurance before you leave Canada, so consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Altitude in Malaysia

Parts of Malaysia are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Dengue fever in Malaysia

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Malaysia. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Malaysia

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Malaysia at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Zika in Malaysia

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Malaysia. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Malaysia. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.