Before traveling to China, it is important to take several health and safety guidelines into account. It is common knowledge that China has experienced significant health and food safety scandals. This makes it essential to take a few precautions for your health.

These precautions are especially important for adventurous travelers who are keen to sample local cuisine and venture into remote regions of China.

Traveling is wonderful, but traveling while staying healthy is even better!

Vaccinations for China

No vaccinations are mandatory for traveling to China, but this does not mean they are not necessary.

A few vaccinations are still recommended, including Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, diphtheria, and Japanese encephalitis.

For organized trips to rural areas, for example, a rabies vaccination is advised.

Of course, it is also highly recommended to keep all your vaccinations up to date, such as polio, tetanus, and measles.

Do not neglect to pack a first-aid kit containing medications for stomach complaints, headaches, sore throats, and diarrhea. Also remember to bring powerful mosquito repellent and sunscreen, which are difficult to find in China.

Particular Health Risks

China is not known for its drinking water—quite the opposite. It is therefore strongly advised not to drink tap water, even in urban areas. Opt for bottled water or boiled water for brushing your teeth, for example. You may also consider bringing small water-filtering capsules before departure; these can be very practical in rural areas.

In most public places, expect not to find Western-style toilets or toilet paper. Always carry some toilet paper with you and a disinfectant hand sanitizer.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquitoes are disease vectors throughout the world. In China, malaria, Japanese encephalitis, and dengue fever are diseases that can be transmitted by mosquitoes.

Sometimes, a single bite is enough to infect you. May through December is the period most favorable for transmission, particularly at dusk and early morning.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease that is particularly widespread during the rainy season. The regions most affected are in the north of the country between May and September, while the disease affects the south between April and October.

Dengue fever is a dangerous disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes during the day. It manifests as a flu-like illness with high fever. This disease can be dangerous for children and elderly people. The effects of dengue can be felt for many months or even years after infection and remains in your bloodstream.

Do not underestimate mosquito sprays and creams!

Food Hygiene Measures

It is not uncommon to hear of a food scandal breaking out in China. From fake plastic rice to melamine-contaminated milk to formaldehyde-treated vegetables, it is true that one must be cautious about what you eat in China. However, this does not mean you should avoid street food stalls or local neighborhood restaurants, as sometimes the best travel experiences come from exactly these places!

Food precautions are often a matter of common sense, but it is always good to reiterate them. Avoid eating any food that has been exposed to the air for too long, particularly fish and meat. Opt for well-cooked meat, fried or boiled foods.

With street vendors, do not hesitate to observe in advance how products are prepared and what oils are used for cooking.

It is well known that Chinese gastronomy is rich but also very spicy. Eating overly spicy food when your stomach is not accustomed to it can cause intestinal pain, constipation, or conversely, diarrhea. Consider yourself warned!

Air Pollution

China is ranked as the world's leading emitter of greenhouse gases, which is hardly surprising given its industrial development. With over one billion tons of carbon dioxide per year, the atmosphere is taking quite a hit. Pollution is much more pronounced in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hebei, and Chengdu and can sometimes become very bothersome.

Indeed, this presents one of the major drawbacks for the country and increases respiratory diseases, cancer, and even premature death.

Air pollution is part of China's tourism challenges. It has become a source of discontent and stress for visitors who sometimes find themselves unable to breathe fresh air.

This pollution can also cause discomforts such as allergies, cough, or headaches. Unfortunately, this can make a trip uncomfortable for travelers with respiratory conditions or asthma. However, there are surgical masks available for protection.

Preventive Measures On-Site

During your stay in China, remember to drink only bottled water or boiled water or tea. Avoid tap water, ice cubes, and other beverages in cups. Do not consume raw foods or unpasteurized dairy products.

Also, avoid swimming in freshwater to prevent schistosomiasis infection. Wash your hands frequently with soap and an instant antibacterial sanitizer.

Do not hesitate to purchase masks on-site to protect yourself from pollution during heavy pollution episodes.

Before departure, remember to purchase travel insurance. Once there, always keep your documents and emergency numbers on you. Learn more about insurance for a trip to China.