Vaccinations for China

Is a bacterial infection spread in the faeces of an infected person. It causes diarrhoea, nausea and stomach cramps and – left untreated – can cause severe dehydration.

Is a viral infection which attacks the liver, initially causing flu-like symptoms and later jaundice, itchy skin and swelling around the liver. In rare cases it can lead to serious liver complications. Like cholera, hepatitis A is spread in the faeces of an infected person.

Is a viral infection which attacks the liver. It is spread in blood and bodily fluids. Most adults infected with the virus recover without experiencing symptoms. However in some people, hepatitis B can become chronic and lead to serious complications such cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Is a viral infection carried by mosquitoes. In most people it causes mild flu-like symptoms – or no symptoms at all. In some cases, however, it can become life-threatening; when the virus spreads to the brain it can cause seizures and paralysis.

Is a viral infection spread to humans through the scratch or bite of an infected animal (usually a dog but can be other animals such as bats, cats and monkeys). It is nearly always fatal, particularly after the victim displays symptoms. Getting bitten by a rabid animal always requires emergency treatment.

A bacterial infection which causes painful muscle spasms and stiffness. Tetanus bacteria are found in soil and animal manure; they can get into the skin through open wounds.

A viral infection carried by ticks. Like Japanese encephalitis, most people recover after an initial bout of flu-like symptoms; in some cases the virus will spread to the brain and become life-threatening.

Is a bacterial infection spread in the faeces (and, less commonly, the urine) of an infected person. It causes a high temperature, stomach pain, and constipation or diarrhoea; left untreated it can lead to serious complications such as internal bleeding.

Is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, causing coughing, difficulty breathing, and a fever. It is spread in the respiratory secretions of an infected person.

If you are planning to work with animals, stay for a long time or travel to a remote location that is 24 hours from reliable medical facilities, you should consider getting the rabies vaccine. It is especially important for children to be protected.

If you will be staying in certain rural and/or forested areas of China, you should consider getting the Japanese encephalitis and the tick-borne encephalitis vaccines. Your healthcare professional will be able to confirm whether you require the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine, as there is only a selection of areas in China with a small risk of this disease. You should also practise insect bite avoidance by wearing long-sleeved tops and trousers and using effective insect repellent.

In areas with poor sanitation you can be at risk of cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid fever. In areas with poor sanitation or limited access to clean water, food and water can become contaminated with faeces. In addition to receiving these vaccines you should be careful about what you eat and how your food is prepared.

These activities can put you at risk of hepatitis B. In unhygienic environments, tattoos and body piercings can be risky as they can expose you to infected blood. Unprotected sex can also lead to the transmission of hepatitis B (as well as other STIs). People with chronic illnesses who are more likely to require medical attention should also consider vaccination as the standard of medical facilities in China is variable.