Health stories from BIMC.
Guidance on staying well in Bali, travel-health advice and updates from across the BIMC network — written by our medical teams.
112 articles
closeClear filtersToxoplasmosis
Human exposure to toxoplasmosis is common wherever cats are found. About 20 to 40% of healthy adults in the US are sero-positive, these are people who are evidently found infected but have no symptoms. The health consequence of toxoplasmosis is actually small, but it may be fatal for the unborn or people with a low
Typhoid Fever
Ever since the first bacterium of Salmonella was found in 1894, scientists have identified over 2300 Salmonella organisms. Salmonella typhi is one most important species in travel medicine as the cause of typhoid fever. The bacteria can be introduced in the human body from contaminated food or water. Most bacteria will be killed when it
Cold sores
Up to 30% of adult people in US had a history of having blisters around the lip. 80-90% of people under 50 years old actually carry the HSV 1. These blisters are known as cold sores or fever blisters. This is actually a virus infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1, which becomes reactivated
Scabies
Dotted lined skin rash on the palms and soles. Unbearable night itch worsening by time. It might be a sign of scabies. Scabies is a skin condition caused by parasite infestation, the itch mite Sarcoptes scabies. They are eight-legged parasites, just 1/3 mm long. The mite digs in the skin creating a burrow, they look
Gastroenteritis in Children
Diarrhea and vomiting are common reasons parents bring their children to the doctor or even to BIMC Hospital’s emergency room. Most are related to gastroenteritis, infection of the stomach and intestines. While usually it is a non-fatal illness, statistics show gastroenteritis to cause 3 million deaths annually worldwide. Many children have more than one episode
Swine Flu Discovered In The UK
Recent news reports the discovery of H1N1 virus infection in poultry for the first time in the UK. Experts found the virus was similar to the H1N1 strain from the recent human swine flu outbreak. The poultry infected turkeys, showed mild signs of the disease and none of the birds died. The UK government stress
Swimmer’s Ears
Swimmer’s ear is another term to describe outer ear canal infection or otitis external. Since this condition frequently occurs to people who swim a lot, it is also called swimmer’s ears. Actually the infection can happen in any situation causing a moist environment of the ear canal. A moist environment aids bacterial growth infecting the
Bali Rabies – Update
Since the emergence of rabies in Bali in late 2008, this viral disease has been problematic for the government. One of the factors causing difficulties in the eradication of rabies on the island is the Balinese culture towards dogs. The Balinese people have close companionships with dogs, even with the strays. They tend to let
Bali Belly
The tropical paradise island of Bali has many things to offer; the unique artwork, the beautiful scenery, and great parties. One other event you won’t forget is if you experience gastroenteritis or as it is commonly called on this island, ”Bali Belly”! Another term commonly used to describe Bali Belly is Traveler’s Diarrhea. Seem familiar?
Before You Go to the Beach
Bali’s beaches are one of the main interests that draw visitors to the island. Did you know you could get sick from swimming in the beaches? Some can even result in serious illnesses that may last longer than your vacation. Here are some things you should know before swimming at the beach. Although the beach
Watch out for Dengue Fever!
Watch out for Dengue Fever! We think it’s time to remind you about dengue fever… again. The tropics and the rainy season… One unique combination that reminds us of dengue fever. Indonesia is an endemic region of dengue fever. This disease can be found in almost every region and anytime of the year, with a
Sore throat
Sore Throat We might just call the sore throat a common sore, since it is as common as the common cold. It could happen to anyone, anywhere and anytime. It can be an early sign of many diseases, even some serious diseases. The key is “Pay attention, but don’t panic”. What are the dangers of
Athlete’s Foot
Don’t be fooled if you ever get this diagnosis. It doesn’t mean you’re eligible to compete for a gold medal. Here’s the real truth about athlete’s foot. The official medical term is tinea pedis. Tinea means infection from dermatophyte fungi and pedis means foot, so it clearly is a fungus infection of the foot. Although
What is swine flu?
Swine flu is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs caused by influenza A virus. It causes high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. Swine influenza viruses may circulate amongst pigs throughout the year. Studies show 30-50% of commercial US swine have been infected with swine flu. The mortality rate is
Pre-Travel Vaccination for Adult Travelers to Bali
Pre-Travel Vaccination for Adult Travelers to Bali When and which vaccination to get before traveling to Bali. It is strongly recommended that you consult your doctor for traveling advice and proper immunization or prophylactic medication for all of your travel plans. The ideal time to see your doctor is 4-6 weeks prior to travel because
FLU, COLD, and ALLERGY
Know more about FLU, COLD, and ALLERGY The symptoms are similar, but one is more serious than the other, know which one. Know what to do from our symptom check list. What are the Differences? Allergy Symptoms usually strike quickly and can include runny nose, sneezing, wheezing, or watery and itchy eyes. You might experience