Health Information

Health Information

Bhutan prioritizes the health and well-being of its citizens, offering free universal healthcare through a government-funded system that integrates both modern and traditional medicine. While the system aims for equitable access, travelers should be aware of certain health considerations.

Here’s an overview of health information for Bhutan:

1. Healthcare Facilities:

• Public Healthcare: Bhutan has a network of hospitals, Basic Health Units (BHUs), and outreach clinics across the country. The Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH) in Thimphu is the largest and best-equipped facility, offering basic and critical surgical and emergency treatment.
• Traditional Medicine: Bhutan places great importance on traditional medicine (Sowa Rigpa), and traditional medicine units are attached to district hospitals. You might find opportunities for traditional healing methods like herbal steam baths, hot stone baths, and acupuncture.
• Limitations: While basic care is available, facilities outside Thimphu are more limited, especially for emergencies. For serious or complex illnesses (like cancer or neurosurgery), patients often need to be evacuated to India or Thailand for advanced medical care.
• Doctor-to-Population Ratio: Bhutan’s doctor-to-population ratio is lower than the WHO recommendation, which can lead to overworked doctors and a lack of specialists.
• Private Healthcare: There are very few private health clinics or physicians in Bhutan, with only one notable private diagnostic center in Thimphu (Menjong Diagnostic Centre).

2. Recommended Vaccinations and Health Concerns for Travelers:

It’s highly recommended to consult a travel health professional or your doctor at least 6-8 weeks before your trip to Bhutan for personalized advice on vaccinations and health precautions.

Commonly Recommended Vaccines/Boosters:

• Hepatitis A: Transmitted through contaminated food and water.
• Typhoid: A food and waterborne bacterial infection.
• Tetanus: Ensure your routine childhood immunizations are up-to-date, and consider a booster.

Other Vaccines to Consider (depending on itinerary and risk factors):

• Hepatitis B: If you anticipate exposure to blood or bodily fluids (e.g., medical procedures, sexual contact).
• Rabies: Especially if you’ll be spending extended time in rural areas, engaging in activities that might expose you to animals (like trekking), or working with animals. Dog bites are a primary risk.
• Japanese Encephalitis (JE): Risk is generally low for most tourists, but consider it if you’ll be spending long periods (e.g., more than 30 days) in rural areas, especially where there are rice fields or pig farming.
• Cholera: For those with increased risk due to activities or medical history, though generally low risk with good food and water hygiene.
• Influenza (Flu): As it’s a common vaccine-preventable illness.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): Ensure you are fully vaccinated.

Other Health Concerns and Precautions:

• Altitude Sickness: Many popular areas in Bhutan are above 2,500m (around 8,200 ft). This is a significant risk and can be life-threatening.
  • Prevention: Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and strenuous activity initially, and be aware of symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue). Discuss medication like acetazolamide with your doctor.
  • Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation from high altitudes.
• Traveler’s Diarrhea and other Food/Waterborne Illnesses: These are common.
  • Prevention: Practice good hand hygiene, drink only bottled or purified water, avoid ice in drinks, and be cautious with street food.
• Mosquito-borne Diseases:
  • Dengue: Outbreaks occur. Protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during the daytime, by using repellent and wearing long clothing.
  • Malaria: The risk is generally very low and limited to certain southern belt areas, but mosquito bite prevention is always recommended. Antimalarial medication is usually not recommended for most travelers.
• Animal Bites: Avoid contact with animals, especially dogs. If bitten or scratched, thoroughly wash the wound and seek immediate medical attention due to the risk of rabies.
• Respiratory Illnesses: Be mindful of general cold and flu symptoms.
• Physical Fitness for Trekking: If you plan to trek, ensure you are physically fit and well-prepared for the strenuous uphill and downhill walks. Wear appropriate footwear and consider trekking poles.

3. Travel Insurance:

• Crucial: It is strongly advised that all travelers to Bhutan purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: This is vital, as serious conditions may require evacuation to better medical facilities in India or Thailand, which can be extremely expensive (easily over USD 100,000).
  • Medical Expenses: Coverage for treatment, hospital stays, and medication.
  • Coverage for all planned activities: Especially if you plan high-altitude trekking or other adventure sports.

4. General Advice:

• Consult a doctor well in advance: Ideally 6-8 weeks before your trip to discuss your specific health needs, itinerary, and recommended vaccinations.
• Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit: Include any personal medications, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antiseptic wipes, and wound dressings.
• Stay hydrated: Especially important when at altitude.
• Be aware of road conditions: Mountain roads can be hazardous due to maintenance, curves, and landslides, especially during the monsoon season (June to September).
• Emergency Numbers: Medical emergencies: 112. Police: 113. Fire and rescue: 110. Traffic police: 111.

While Bhutan aims for high Gross National Happiness (GNH) and health is a priority, being prepared and informed about potential health risks will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trip.