Common health concerns for expats in Thailand: Prevention and protection
Moving to Thailand as an expat offers adventure, vibrant culture, and an excellent lifestyle, but it also brings some health challenges that might not be familiar to you. From tropical diseases to climate-related conditions, understanding common health concerns and knowing how to prevent them can make all the difference for your well-being. Here’s what you should know about staying healthy in Thailand and how having the right health insurance can keep you covered.
1. Respiratory issues due to air pollution
During certain months, particularly from February to April, Thailand experiences increased air pollution from agricultural burning in the northern region and smog from vehicle emissions in Bangkok. If you are not used to the high pollution levels, this can lead to respiratory problems, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe respiratory distress.
In Chiang Mai, for instance, air quality often dips to hazardous levels, causing an increase in cases of bronchitis, asthma, and even pneumonia. To protect yourself, wearing high-quality masks, avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollution days, and keeping air purifiers at home are essential steps.
2. Food and water-borne illnesses
Thailand’s diverse street food is tempting, but food safety can sometimes be an issue. Water-borne illnesses such as E. coli, salmonella, and gastroenteritis are common. The CDC also reports cases of hepatitis A and typhoid fever associated with contaminated food and water, which expats are at higher risk for if they don’t take precautions.
To reduce the risks, always drink bottled or filtered water and look for freshly cooked food. It’s also worth considering vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, especially if you plan on indulging in local markets and street food. Health insurance plans often cover vaccinations, so having this in place can save you from unexpected costs.
3. Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases
Mosquito-borne illnesses, particularly dengue fever, are common in tropical climates. In Thailand, the rainy season from May to October creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of dengue, chikungunya, and even malaria in some rural areas.
Dengue fever has been a recurring issue in Thailand, with outbreaks affecting both locals and foreigners. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint pain, and rash, and the disease can lead to serious complications. To stay protected, apply mosquito repellent regularly, wear long sleeves, and consider using mosquito nets at night.
If you’re infected, treatment may require hospitalisation and follow-ups, which can be costly. Cigna health insurance, for example, covers inpatient care for such illnesses, ensuring that if you do contract a mosquito-borne disease, you’re not left worrying about medical bills.
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4. Skin conditions
Thailand’s high humidity and extreme heat can lead to various skin issues, from heat rash to fungal infections. Anyone unused to the tropical climate may also find themselves more sensitive to sunburn, prickly heat, and fungal infections like ringworm. Visiting a dermatologist can help treat these conditions, but preventive measures, like applying sunscreen, wearing breathable fabrics, and staying hydrated, are also key.
Some health insurance plans offer coverage for outpatient visits, including specialist consultations, making it easier to access quality dermatological care without high expenses.
5. Seasonal allergies
Thailand’s lush greenery and humid weather often trigger seasonal allergies in newcomers. Pollen, mould, and dust mites are common. Symptoms can include itchy eyes, runny nose, and coughing. If you are not familiar with these allergens, you might experience more frequent allergy flare-ups, particularly during the rainy season.
Air purifiers, regular home cleaning, and over-the-counter antihistamines can help manage symptoms. Comprehensive health insurance plans may include coverage for specialist consultations, so if your allergies require a doctor’s care, having insurance in place is beneficial.
6. Mental health support
Adjusting to a new country, language, and culture can be tough, and many expats often face stress, anxiety, or homesickness. Thailand offers mental health support, but English-speaking therapists are primarily available in private facilities, where the costs can be high without insurance.
The right health insurance plan can include mental health support, from counselling sessions to wellness programmes, helping you stay balanced while adapting to life in Thailand.
Secure your health now to avoid future risks
Thailand offers excellent healthcare options, but navigating the costs and ensuring comprehensive coverage can be challenging for expats. Without the right insurance, unexpected medical expenses, especially for serious health issues, can create financial strain. Investing in a health insurance plan specifically designed for expats provides access to quality care and helps protect against the high costs of unexpected health events.
Cigna offers specialised plans with a range of benefits suited to expats’ needs:
- Inpatient & outpatient coverage: Covering hospital stays, surgeries, and specialist visits, so you’re prepared for anything from dengue to a routine check-up.
- Preventative care: Including vaccinations, screenings, and wellness programmes to stay on top of health issues like respiratory concerns and tropical diseases.
- Mental health support: Essential services, such as counselling and wellness coaching, to manage the stress of relocating and cultural adaptation.
Cigna plan overview
| Plan | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Silver Plan | Covers core needs like hospital care and emergency treatment. |
| Gold Plan | Includes added benefits like outpatient care and maternity support. |
| Platinum Plan | Unlimited annual coverage with full wellness and mental health support. |
With these plans, you have access to quality hospitals, coverage for preventive measures, and financial protection if an unexpected health issue arises. Health insurance isn’t just about emergencies; it’s about staying healthy and ensuring your well-being as an expat.
Secure 10% off your expat health plan this month only!
T&Cs apply*
*Cigna Healthcare reserves the right to amend or withdraw a promotion at any time without notice. This promotion ends on November 30th, 2024. This 10% discount will apply for the lifetime of the policy and is only eligible to new Cigna Global Individual customers. The discount may only be applied by a sales agent and cannot be applied in conjunction with any other offer, except the 10% discount given to policies paid annually in full. If you choose to pay your policy annually in full, your 10% discount will be applied after the 10% annual discount has been applied. Only Cigna Global Individual Policies are eligible for the 10% discount. A minimum purchase value of $2000 for policies based in Europe is applicable. Policies based in the rest of the world require a minimum purchase value of $3000 to be eligible.
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