Risk / Health Info for Hong Kong

Check with your Canadian Travel Clinics adviser about updating your regular shots before you leave for Hong Kong. It is always a good idea to protect yourself against illnesses such as hepatitis A or typhoid that can be prevented by a vaccine.

Avoid “travellers’ diarrhea” by sticking to foods you can peel or have been cooked or boiled.

Hong Kong has good medical facilities. Private hospitals may ask for proof of insurance coverage or a guaranteed payment, including a deposit. Don’t forget that your Canadian health plan won’t cover you when you travel, so consult your provincial or territorial health authority about travel insurance before you go to Hong Kong.

Dengue fever in Hong Kong

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Hong Kong. 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.

Japanese encephalitis in Hong Kong

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Hong Kong

MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory infection with a high mortality rate. It is caused by the coronavirus and is thought to be contracted from infected camels. You should take diligent hygiene measures such as thorough handwashing if you visit a farm, barn or market or touch a camel. Avoid contact with sick animals. Do not drink raw camel milk or urine; and do not eat camel meat that has not been properly cooked. The Government of Canada has issued a travel health advisory about Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in Hong Kong.