Health & safety: Thailand
Tap water
Not safe
Food safety
Caution
Can you drink the tap water in Thailand?
Tap water NOT safe to drink. Bottled water everywhere. Ice in chain restaurants/big hotels safe; rural stalls risky.
Food safety in Thailand
Street food is the cuisine — pick busy stalls + watch food being cooked. Risks: contaminated water, raw seafood, undercooked street meat. Use Pepto-Bismol prophylactically.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Hepatitis A + B
- Typhoid
- Japanese Encephalitis if visiting rural/agricultural areas in summer
- Rabies if outdoor activities or staying long-term
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Doi Inthanon (2,565m) — moderate. Most of Thailand at sea level.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Dengue + Zika + Chikungunya year-round (peak May-Oct). Malaria rare in tourist areas. DEET 30%+.
Heat risk
Bangkok Mar-May 40°C+ with brutal humidity. Hydrate.
Emergency medical infrastructure
Bangkok Hospital + Bumrungrad world-class + affordable. Rural areas limited.