Maintaining good health is the foundation for enjoying your travels. China has vast territory, diverse climates, and rich culinary culture, which may present some unique health challenges for foreign tourists. This article details common health issues during travel in China, practical preventive measures, necessary medical preparations, and how to handle emergency health situations, helping you protect your health while enjoying your trip to China.
Important Note: It is recommended to consult a doctor before traveling to understand if specific vaccinations are needed. Prepare personal medications and a first aid kit. Carry a bilingual card with important health information (such as allergies and chronic conditions).
I. Common Travel Health Issues
Understanding the health issues you may encounter during travel in China and their symptoms can help you identify them promptly and take appropriate measures. Here are the most common health issues faced by foreign tourists:
Gastrointestinal Problems
Including traveler's diarrhea, indigestion, and food poisoning, these are the most common health issues.
- • Symptoms: abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
- • Usually caused by unclean food or water, or adjustment to new environment
- • Most cases resolve within 1-3 days
- • Severe cases may lead to dehydration, requiring prompt treatment
Respiratory Problems
Health issues related to air quality and climate adaptation.
- • Symptoms: cough, throat discomfort, nasal congestion
- • Common in northern regions during winter and cities with heavy pollution
- • Allergy sufferers may be sensitive to pollen or mold
- • Altitude sickness may occur in mountainous and high-altitude areas
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Health risks that require special attention in specific seasons and regions.
- • Including dengue fever, malaria (mainly in southern regions)
- • Symptoms: high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain
- • Higher risk during rainy season and in humid areas
- • Prevention is more important than treatment
Other Health Issues
Health problems related to environmental adaptation and accidents.
- • Heat stroke (common in high-temperature areas during summer)
- • Skin problems (allergies, sunburn)
- • Sports injuries (during hiking, climbing)
- • Allergic reactions (food, environmental factors)
Emergency Symptom Alert: Seek immediate medical help if you experience the following symptoms: persistent high fever (above 38.5℃), severe diarrhea (more than 6 times a day or with blood), difficulty breathing, severe headache with vomiting, unexplained rash or swelling, or serious injuries. These may be signs of severe illness or complications, do not delay treatment.
II. Food Safety and Drinking Water Guide
Food safety is key to preventing gastrointestinal diseases. China's culinary culture is rich and diverse, but unfamiliar foods and eating habits may pose health risks for foreign tourists. Here are important guidelines for ensuring food safety:
| Category | Recommended Practices | Avoid | Safety Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drinking Water | Bottled water, boiled water, filtered water | Tap water, unlabeled beverages | Ensure bottle caps are intact before drinking |
| Food | Thoroughly cooked food, peeled fruits | Raw food, street vendor cold dishes | Choose busy restaurants |
| Seafood | Fresh and thoroughly cooked seafood | Sashimi, drunk crab and other raw seafood | Pay attention to seafood freshness |
| Street Food | Hot food, freshly prepared food | Food exposed to air | Observe hygiene conditions before purchasing |
Dietary Adaptation Advice: When first arriving in China, it is recommended to gradually try local specialty foods, avoiding large amounts of spicy or greasy food at once. Carry commonly used gastrointestinal medications. If mild discomfort occurs, reduce food intake and choose light, easily digestible foods. Many large hotels and international restaurants offer food options that meet international standards, which can serve as a transitional adaptation.
III. Environmental Adaptation and Health Protection
China has vast territory with significant climate and environmental differences, from the tropical climate in the south to the cold and dry north, from plains to plateaus. Environmental changes may affect health. It is crucial to adapt to the environment and take protective measures.
Climate Change Adaptation
Summer Heat (June-August)
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Avoid prolonged outdoor activities during midday
- Wear breathable light-colored clothing and hats
- Use sunscreen (SPF30+)
- Carry heat-relief medications
Winter Cold (December-February)
- Keep warm with layered clothing
- Adjust clothing for indoor-outdoor temperature differences
- Maintain indoor ventilation, avoid dryness
- Keep hands and feet warm, prevent frostbite
- Supplement vitamin C to boost immunity
Air Quality Protection
Some cities may experience air pollution, especially during winter. Recommendations:
- Download air quality apps (such as "Blue Map") to check real-time indices
- Reduce outdoor activities and close windows when air quality is poor
- Wear particle-filtering masks (N95 or KN95 standard) when necessary
- Wash face and rinse mouth after returning indoors to remove particles
- Use air purifiers (especially in hotel rooms)
- Sensitive groups (asthma, respiratory disease patients) need special attention
Mosquito Protection Measures
- Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, especially in evenings and nights
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants to reduce skin exposure
- Choose accommodation with air conditioning or mosquito nets
- Avoid areas with dense mosquitoes such as wetlands and bushes
- Learn about mosquito-borne diseases like malaria at your destination before traveling
- If bitten, avoid scratching and use anti-itch cream
V. Health Considerations for Special Groups
Different groups have different health needs and risk factors. Here are health considerations for special groups:
Child Travelers
- Ensure all necessary vaccinations are completed
- Carry common fever reducers and children's medications
- Pay special attention to food hygiene, avoid raw and cold food
- Always carry drinking water, avoid dehydration
- Prepare sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- Record information about pediatric hospitals at the destination
Chronic Disease Patients
- Carry enough prescription medication, more than travel days
- Carry doctor's certificate and English medication instructions
- Learn about hospitals at the destination that can provide relevant treatment
- Follow regular treatment plan, do not stop medication arbitrarily
- Pay attention to the impact of climate change on the condition
- Avoid overexertion, arrange itinerary reasonably
Elderly Travelers
- Undergo health check before traveling, assess travel suitability
- Arrange a relaxed itinerary, avoid excessive fatigue
- Carry all necessary medications and health records
- Keep warm, avoid large temperature differences
- Wear comfortable shoes, prevent falls
- Carry emergency contact information
VI. Emergency Health Management During Travel
Understanding basic emergency management methods can help you deal with common health issues before receiving professional medical help:
Common Health Issue Management
- Mild Diarrhea: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, avoid dairy products and greasy foods, take oral rehydration salts and anti-diarrheal medication, rest for 1-2 days to recover
- Heat Stroke: Immediately move to a cool place, loosen clothing, cool down with wet towels, replenish electrolyte water, seek medical attention if symptoms are severe
- Mosquito Bites: Clean with soap and water, apply anti-itch cream, avoid scratching, seek medical attention if abnormal reactions (swelling, pain) occur
- Minor Injuries: Rinse with clean water, apply antiseptic, cover with bandage or plaster, seek medical attention if the wound is deep or shows signs of infection
Emergency Response
- Severe Allergic Reactions: If carrying an epinephrine auto-injector, use it immediately; keep the patient lying down, call emergency services, record the time symptoms appeared
- Heart Attack: Have the patient sit and rest, keep calm, assist with prescribed medication (nitroglycerin) if available, call emergency services immediately
- Fractures or Severe Injuries: Do not move the patient, immobilize the injured area, call emergency services, keep the patient warm and conscious
- Loss of Consciousness: Ensure the patient's airway is clear, do not force feed or give water, call emergency services, record the time and circumstances of loss of consciousness
VII. Healthy Travel Planning and Preparation
Adequate health preparation is the foundation for enjoying your trip. Proper preparation before departure can effectively reduce health risks:
Pre-Travel Health Preparation
- Consult a doctor 4-6 weeks in advance to understand vaccination requirements
- Prepare a personal medical kit including common medications
- Learn about major health risks at the destination
- Record important health information (allergies, medical history)
- Learn basic Chinese health-related vocabulary
Health Management During Travel
- Maintain adequate sleep, avoid overexertion
- Maintain a balanced diet, pay attention to food safety
- Drink plenty of water, stay hydrated
- Exercise moderately, avoid strenuous activities
- Pay attention to personal hygiene, wash hands frequently
- Check physical condition daily, identify problems promptly
Conclusion
Good health is the foundation for enjoying travel. With adequate preparation and preventive measures, most travel health problems can be avoided. Understanding health risks at your destination, making appropriate preparations, carrying necessary medications, and paying attention to diet and personal hygiene are all important aspects of ensuring travel health. We hope this guide helps you have a healthy and pleasant journey in China!