Protecting Your Health in Singapore

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When you travel, it is best that you know the possible health risks that you would face when you go to a certain place. Likewise, you ought to know what you must do or avoid in order to protect your health in Singapore. Are there certain kinds of food you should eat with caution? Are there places you should stay away from? Is the local environment safe? Knowing the answers to these questions before you leave for your trip will help you keep your health in check when you reach your destination.

One thing that you would not have any problem about when you go to Singapore is cleanliness. The city is very clean, mostly because of the strict implementation of rules against eating in public vehicles, littering, and spitting. Those who are caught doing such things are immediately fined. You will observe that most people are quite disciplined when they walk along the city streets, unlike other countries in this part of Asia. To make sure that you don’t violate the local rules, be sure to read public warning signs that say which activities are not allowed, and follow the rules.

Water in Singapore is generally safe, and you can drink it straight from the tap. However, food and drink preparation in certain restaurants is another issue. One of the risks for your health in Singapore is diarrhea caused by consuming food or drink that is not prepared properly. You can avoid this by following simple guidelines.

For example, when you buy fresh vegetables and fruits, do not eat them unpeeled. When you go out to eat, make sure the food is freshly cooked and served hot. Do not eat undercooked meat or fish. Some dishes are served with raw fish, but if you’re not sure how your stomach will handle it, be wise and eat something else. Always bring antidiarrheal medicines such as diphenoxylate or loperamide when you travel. If you do get hit by travelers’ diarrhea, take the drug promptly. See a doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe.

Dengue fever is another risk for your health in Singapore. The government implements strict programs to control mosquito growth; anyone caught leaving standing water is imposed a fine. To protect yourself from dengue fever, always apply insect repellent on exposed skin. Insect repellents with 20% picaridin or 25 to 50% DEET are best. Don’t use those that have DEET concentration greater than 50%, as these can have some negative effects, particularly in children. Products with higher DEET concentration have no added benefits anyway.

The city is generally a safe place, and taking simple precautions can keep you sickness free during your stay. However, if you should need medical attention, there are many hospitals that you can go to. Singapore is known for its excellent medical services, and the city-state is in fact a medical tourism hotspot. There are also convenient clinics in shopping malls where you can go for a quick consultation. All in all, it is easy to maintain good health in Singapore while you are on vacation.