So you plan on visiting India? Before even planning on going to India, don’t forget that you will need and Indian visa. You can’t enter India without a visa. Next, make sure that you watch your health as well. This is one of the usual things that travellers overlook, so don’t make the same mistake. India is a different land and the conditions and climate there are a lot different than other countries, especially if you come from cooler countries.
Take note that it is important to see a doctor or go to a travel health clinic before travelling to India; maybe four to eight weeks before travel. However, it is more advisable to go to a travel health clinic, since they are more knowledgeable about the vaccinations and medications that you need to have before travelling to the different regions of India.
One of the most common ailments that travellers experience is the traveller’s diarrhoea. Be sure to bring some antibiotic and anti-diarrhoea medications before travelling to India. It is perfectly normal for travellers to be in a hurry to go to India, especially because the Indian visa takes some time to process. However, it is also important that you must look after your health. You might find yourself having more trouble with certain ailments than waiting for your Indian visa to be processed.
Moving on, make sure that you are healthy. The medical facilities in remote areas in India are not that well-equipped, so you might have trouble if you encounter a serious medical condition. The hospital in large cities may be well-equipped, but is not favourable for prolonged hospitalisation.
Always keep in mind that India is affected by dengue and malaria. To avoid these, apply insect repellents. Also make sure that the water you drink is clean. Do not drink water if it is not boiled or bottled.
You will be able to go around India with a visa. However, take note that other regions in India are affected with the bird flu. Two of the most notable regions are Assam and Bengal. To avoid catching bird flu, stay away from birds, whether caged or in the wild and be careful when eating poultry dishes.
Aside from dengue and malaria, there are also numerous cases of Japanese encephalitis. It is a good idea to be vaccinated against this mosquito-borne disease before travelling to India. Just like dengue and malaria, make sure that you the food and water you take are clean and put on some insect repellent when going out. Avoid close contact with monkeys as well. Monkeys are known to transmit herpes b and rabies, so avoid being bitten.
I know people can wait to travel to India after obtaining their visa. However, you should also watch out for your health, especially in a foreign land. An Indian visa won’t be of much help if you contract diseases in India. Watch out for your health, make the necessary preparations and you will be able to put your India Visa to good use.
