The 21 locally-acquired malaria cases recorded this year in the southern district of Sarpang (adjacent to the Indian state of Assam) mean that Bhutan’s malaria eradication targets have to be re-set and are now planned for 2022. At the earliest, certification would be approved by the WHO in 2025 if zero incidence of indigenous malaria is maintained over the three intervening years. Dengue fever does remain a public health issue and cases are reported from all but one of the country’s 20 dzongkhags. Around three-quarters of the 1,000+ cases this year were in the town of Phuentsholing, located in another border district, Chukha. Read more
Advice for travellers
Travelvax recommends that travellers planning a visit to malarious regions discuss their itinerary and preventative measures, including medication, during a pre-travel medical consultation. More on malaria.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.