Spring Festival holiday is a nice time to get away from the busy city. However, before setting out for the various fascinating destinations, foreign tourists may need first to get themselves informed of the various problems they may encouter in China. Here comes a list.

Injuries

Injuries are the leading cause of preventable death in travelers. An estimated five million people lost their lives from injuries in 2000, and over 90 percent of these were in developing countries.

Be aware that driving a car or riding a motorbike around China yourself may be more dangerous due to unfamiliarity with the roads, traffic regulations and conditions. Buses, taxis and particularly motorbike taxis are also far from flawlessly safe. If possible, travel during daylight, in good weather conditions and encourage your driver not to speed and cut people off.

Travelers' diarrhea

Every year, an estimated 10 million international tourists develop diarrhea, which makes it the most common illness among travelers. Ninety percent are resolved within one week, but it's never a pleasant experience and extra care should be taken when traveling in a foreign country.

Avoid eating food and drink bought from street vendors.

Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood and raw fruit unless you wash or peel it yourself.

Mild diarrhea can be left to run its course. Rehydration by drinking pure water is recommended. If the diarrhea is prolonged, then seek advice from a local doctor. If the condition persists despite treatment, then you should consider heading for a Western hospital, perhaps in Beijing, to be treated for a possible parasitic infection.

Malaria

Malaria, and a range of other diseases, is transmitted by infected mosquitoes, which usually bite at nighttime. If you're outside after dark, then consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat. Apply insect repellent to any exposed skin. You may want to bring a mosquito net and spray repellent to use inside.

Altitude sickness

If you visit the Himalayan Mountains or the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, try to ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude. You should also use sunblock as the risk of sunburn is greater at high elevations. What preventative measures can I take against sickness?

Wash your hands regularly

Only drink bottled or boiled water, or use your own purification methods .

Keep your feet clean and dry. Don't go barefoot.

Use latex condoms to reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

What vaccines should I take to prepare for travel in China?

Unfortunately, there's no definitive answer. You should arrange an appointment with a doctor who can discuss your medical history and panned travel destinations for you.

Bear in mind that some vaccines should be taken four to six weeks before travel. You might want to consider protection against Hepatitis A and malaria for the south of China.

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