Remember, the key to safe and healthy travel is preparation. Make sure you're prepared before you go, stay informed while you're there, and respect local laws and customs.
Health and Safety in Sri Lanka
When travelling to Sri Lanka, there are several health and safety considerations you should be aware of:
Vaccinations: Before travelling, you should consult with a travel medicine specialist or your local doctor to ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot. Additional vaccines recommended for Sri Lanka include Hepatitis A and Typhoid (both can be contracted through contaminated food or water), and Hepatitis B. Depending on your planned activities and locations, you may also need to consider vaccines or medications for diseases like Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies.
Malaria and Dengue Fever: While the risk of malaria is low in Sri Lanka, Dengue Fever can be a risk, particularly in urban areas. Be sure to protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using a mosquito net if sleeping in an area exposed to the outdoors.
Food and Water Safety: Only drink bottled water, and avoid ice unless you know it's been made from bottled or disinfected water. Be cautious with street food – make sure it is freshly cooked and served hot. Peeling fruit yourself and avoiding raw vegetables can also help you avoid foodborne illnesses.
General Safety: Like any travel destination, beware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so keep your valuables secure and be discreet with cash and expensive items. Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and always inform someone of your travel plans.
Travel Insurance: It's recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers any potential medical costs, including evacuation, as well as loss of belongings and cancellation fees. Check the details of your policy to make sure it fits your needs.
Emergency Numbers: The general emergency number in Sri Lanka is 119. For ambulance and rescue services you can dial 110. It's a good idea to have these numbers saved in your phone.
Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are adequate for non-emergency medical treatment in urban areas but can be limited in rural areas. More serious illnesses or injuries might require evacuation to a country with higher-level medical facilities.
Weather-Related Safety: Sri Lanka experiences monsoon seasons, which can cause flooding and landslides. Be aware of local weather forecasts, particularly if you're travelling in rural or mountainous areas.
Swimming: Sri Lanka's beaches are beautiful but can have strong currents. Always pay attention to local advice and warning flags. Avoid swimming at beaches that are not attended by lifeguards.
Cultural Respect: Sri Lanka is a country with deep religious traditions, particularly Buddhism. Show respect at religious sites by covering shoulders and knees, removing shoes, and not posing inappropriately with statues or images of deities.
