Common Illnesses Travellers Get in Thailand – What to Watch Out For in Koh Samui

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations—beautiful beaches, warm weather, and world-class hospitality. But the change in climate, food, and environment means travelers sometimes face unexpected illnesses during their trip.

At Samui Home Clinic, we treat tourists daily for common travel-related conditions. Knowing the risks helps you avoid them and enjoy a safe, healthy holiday.

Here are the most common illnesses travellers get in Thailand—and what you can do to prevent them.

Food Poisoning & Stomach Problems

Food poisoning is the number-one health issue among travelers in Thailand.

Common causes:

• Unwashed produce

• Undercooked seafood

• Street food hygiene issues

• Ice made from unsafe water

• Bacteria from tropical heat

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Symptoms to watch for:

Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, fever, dehydration.

How to prevent it:

• Choose stalls with high food turnover

• Avoid cold or raw seafood

• Use hand sanitizer before eating

• Drink bottled or filtered water

• Be cautious with ice in remote areas

Samui Home Clinic offers fast treatment so you can return to enjoying your holiday.

Sunburn & Heat Exhaustion

Thailand’s UV index is extremely high, especially in Koh Samui. Travelers often underestimate how quickly sunburn or heat exhaustion can occur.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion:

Dizziness, nausea, headache, dark urine, fast heartbeat.

Prevention:

• Use SPF 30–50 sunscreen

• Wear a hat and sunglasses

• Avoid direct sun between 12:00–15:00

• Drink 2–3 liters of water daily

• Take breaks in the shade

Severe sunburn or dehydration may require medical attention.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses (Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika)

Mosquito-borne diseases exist in many tropical countries, including Thailand.

Dengue fever symptoms:

High fever, joint pain, rash, fatigue.

How to protect yourself:

• Use mosquito repellent containing DEET or picaridin

• Wear long sleeves during dawn and dusk

• Sleep in air-conditioned rooms

• Avoid areas with stagnant water

If you develop a fever after mosquito bites, visit a clinic immediately for testing.

Respiratory Infections & Travel Flu

Going from air-conditioned rooms into hot, humid weather can weaken the immune system.

Common travel infections include:

• Cold and flu

• Sinus infections

• Throat infections

• Allergies triggered by humidity

Prevention:

• Stay hydrated

• Avoid freezing air-conditioning

• Carry a mask in crowded areas

• Take vitamin supplements before your trip

At Samui Home Clinic, we offer checkups and medication for fast relief.

Skin Infections & Rashes

Warm, humid weather combined with outdoor activities can cause skin problems.

Common skin issues for travelers:

• Fungal infections

• Heat rash

• Coral cuts

• Infected wounds

• Allergic reactions

Avoid skin complications by:

• Showering after the beach

• Keeping cuts clean

• Avoiding scratching insect bites

• Wearing breathable clothing

If a wound becomes red, swollen, or painful, medical care is needed to prevent infection.

Scooter & Minor Road Injuries

Scooter accidents are very common among tourists in Koh Samui.

Typical injuries include:

• Scrapes

• Cuts

• Bruises

• Road rash

• Sprains or fractures

How to stay safe:

• Always wear a helmet

• Avoid riding after drinking

• Check your scooter before renting

• Ride slowly on unfamiliar roads

Our clinic can clean wounds, treat infections, and provide X-ray referrals if needed.

When Should Travelers See a Doctor?

Visit a clinic if you experience:

• Fever lasting more than 24 hours or you concern about it

• Severe diarrhea or vomiting

• Suspected infection

• Difficulty breathing

• Injury from a fall or accident

• Rash with swelling or fever

Quick medical care helps prevent serious complications.

Samui Home Clinic – Your Trusted Medical Care While Traveling

If you become sick during your stay on Koh Samui, we are here to help.

We treat all common traveler illnesses and provide fast, friendly, affordable care.

At Samui Home Clinic, we offer:

General doctor consultations

Food poisoning & dehydration treatment

Fever & infection management

Wound care & emergency treatment

Travel medicine & vaccinations

Medical certificates

House calls to hotels and villas