Cambodia Travel Guide - Health

Malaria and Dengue Fever are present in Cambodia and visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid both. Malaria tablets, whilst coming with some harsh side-effects, are a sensible course of action; you can discuss which one's are appropriate with your doctor or find further advice on your own consulate's website. Since Dengue cannot be protected against with oral medication, it's essential to wear mosquito repellent at all times, especially in the evenings and when situated close to still sources of water.

Water-borne diseases present various risks to visitors and water for both internal and external purposes should be treated with careful consideration. It's unwise to swim or bathe in untreated water sources and chlorinated pools should be considered the only exclusion to this rule. Water from taps and showers can be considered acceptable for cleaning the body externally only. For the purpose of drinking, bottled water is cheap and readily available and should be used for cleaning the teeth also. It's unwise to trust tap water in any circumstances, even if it's been boiled, as its differing chemical composition can be enough to upset the stomachs of those not adjusted to it.