Top 5 Things to Know Before Travelling to Thailand from Edmonton
- Rosemarie Cordeta
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Thailand calls to the curious. The hum of street markets at dusk, emerald jungles alive with sound, temples glowing beneath a tropical sun—Thailand offers experiences that linger long after the journey ends. But travel to Southeast Asia also brings health risks unfamiliar to Canada.
If you’re travelling to Thailand from Edmonton, Alberta, visiting a travel clinic before departure helps ensure your journey begins protected, prepared, and worry-free.
1. Routine and Travel Vaccines Are Essential for Thailand
Before travelling, all travelers should be fully up to date on routine vaccines: MMR, tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio, influenza, and COVID-19. Measles cases are rising globally, and international travel increases exposure risk.
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid: Core Travel Vaccines
Hepatitis A. Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water and is common among travelers to Thailand.
Recommended for all unvaccinated travelers
Primary protection begins after 1 dose of monovalent hepatitis A vaccine
A booster dose is given 6 to 36 months later, depending on the vaccine product
After the 2-dose series, protective antibody levels are expected to persist for at least 20 years and likely much longer
Hepatitis B Hepatitis B spreads through blood and body fluids, including sexual contact, medical or dental procedures, tattoos, piercings, and accidental exposure.
Children born March 1, 2018 or later in Alberta receive hepatitis B as part of their routine childhood vaccines
Most others require 3 doses over 6 months
Travelers can be vaccinated with:
Standalone hepatitis B vaccine, or
Twinrix, a combination vaccine that protects against both hepatitis A and B
Twinrix is ideal for frequent travelers or those needing both vaccines on a convenient schedule
Typhoid FeverTyphoid spreads through contaminated food and water, particularly in rural areas or street food settings.
Vaccination is recommended for most travelers
Injectable (inactivated) vaccine: single dose, for travelers 2 years and older, protection lasts ~2–3 years
Oral (live, attenuated) vaccine: 4 capsules, for travelers 6 years and older, protection lasts ~5 years, must be completed ≥1 week before travel
Vaccination reduces risk but does not replace safe food and water precautions
2. Mosquito-Borne Diseases Are a Major Risk in Thailand
Mosquito-borne illnesses are common throughout Thailand, even in cities and resorts.
Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika
ocal transmission of chikungunya virus occurs countrywide. The same mosquitoes also transmit dengue and Zika.
Dengue fever is endemic and occurs year-round, with peak outbreaks during the rainy season. Severe illness can require hospitalization.
Zika virus infection is possible; pregnant travelers or those planning pregnancy should review recommendations.
Prevention relies on mosquito bite protection: insect repellent, long clothing, air-conditioned or screened accommodations.
Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for travelers with extended stays or higher exposure risk.
3. Japanese Encephalitis Depends on Your Itinerary
 JE Vaccine
Authorized for 2 months and older
Primary series:Â two doses, 28 days apart
Accelerated schedule: for adults 18–64, two doses 7 days apart if travel timing is limited
Recommended for travelers who:
Stay in Thailand ≥1 month
Spend time in rural, agricultural, or outdoor areas
Expect extensive outdoor exposure (camping, hiking, eco-adventures)
4. Malaria Risk Is Location-Specific
Malaria in Thailand is limited to:
Rural forested areas along the Myanmar and Cambodia borders
Southern provinces near the Malaysia border
Travelers visiting Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket generally do not need medication, and mosquito precautions alone are sufficient
Travelers to higher-risk areas may require malaria prophylaxis, started before travel
5. Food, Water, and Animal Exposure Still Matter
Thailand’s food culture is world-famous, but precautions are essential:
Eat freshly cooked food
Avoid raw or undercooked items
Drink bottled beverages only
Avoid ice
Animal bites remain a risk. Dogs, cats, and monkeys are common near tourist sites. Avoid contact and seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched.
Why Choose Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton Travel Clinic
At Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton Travel Clinic, your journey begins with expert preparation.
We offer:
Pharmacist-led travel consultations
Personalized vaccine and medication plans
Same-day and last-minute appointments
No consultation, injection, or certificate fees
Trusted care for Edmonton travelers
Travel is an invitation—to explore, to learn, to be changed .Let preparation be the quiet companion that protects your adventure.
If you’re travelling to Thailand from Edmonton, Alberta, visit Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton Travel Clinic and step into your journey informed, protected, and ready for wonder.
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