NSW Health director of communicable diseases Dr Vicky Sheppeard said tourists should be mindful of the risks of rabies, measles, sexually transmitted infections and polio besides cholera, typhoid and malaria in South East Asia

“Measles outbreaks are ongoing in Thailand and the Philippines, and anyone up to 52 years of age who hasn’t had two documented doses of measles vaccine, is encouraged to get vaccinated before leaving Australia,” Dr Sheppeard said.

“Those over 52 are assumed to have immunity through contracting measles as a child, in pre-vaccination times. 

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Dr Sheppeard said vaccine for measles can be obtained for free from GPs.

She said rabies is a risk in much of Asia, including Bali and now in Sarawak, Malaysia – an area previously declared free of rabies. 

“Seek urgent medical care if bitten by an animal anywhere in Asia, and don’t feed monkeys, even at popular tourists sites, as a bite or a scratch could lead to an expensive course of vaccinations to prevent rabies. 

“While there is a three-dose jab course you can take prior, we normally only recommend this for people heading away for months and not the casual travellers.” 

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NSW Health is also urging travellers to practice safe sex following two cases of extensively drug-resistant gonorrhoea this year.

The victims are suspected to have contracted the disease during their stay in South East Asia. 

“Japan is experiencing a major syphilis outbreak, so use a condom with any casual or new sex partners overseas, and have an STI screen once you return to Australia. 

“Also, don't forget to carry your regular medicines in the original packaging with the label, and take a letter from your doctor or carry the prescription too,” Dr Sheppeard said.