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.
134 articles
closeClear filtersSafe Diving
Since 4500 BC, humans have engaged in free (breath-hold) diving to obtain food and substances from shallow ocean floors at depths of 100 ft or more. Humans, always ready for new inventions and exploring new areas, created several equipments to make water exploration possible. The invention of SCUBA was one of the biggest inventions. Scuba
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
Bali Medical Evacuation
Bali Medical Evacuation Medical evacuation or often referred to as a “Medivac”, was initially developed to transfer injured soldiers from the battlefield to a proper medical facility for better treatment. The military were first to establish a specially designed aircraft for medivacs. By time, air medical evacuations have became available for civilians and operated
Pulmonary Embolism
You must have heard about people having a heart attack, where there is a blood clot blocking the blood supply to the heart. Similar to a heart attack, pulmonary embolism is a lung attack, where a blood clot is blocking the blood supply to a certain part of the lung. In most cases, the clots
Surfing Injuries
Surfing Injuries Although surfing is thought to be a relatively risk free sport, with an incidence between 3 – 4 injuries per 1000 days of surfing, we think it’s wise that you know what to expect and what to do before riding the waves. Surfing is an ancient sport originally from Hawaii. There is written
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
Blocking the Sun
Ultraviolet rays in sun light can cause serious and often irreversible harm to the body. This can range from eye damage to the more extreme, skin cancer. Prevention must start from early age. For the skin, sun blocks or sunscreens have been proven effective. Bali is located just 8 degrees from the equator, so below
Motion Sickness
Why are people more likely to get car sick in the back seat than in the front? Why are drivers less likely to get car sick than front seat passengers? Why do some people get sick in the car only when they read? On a bumpy flight, why are children more likely than adults to
Traveling with babies
Traveling with babies can be a surprisingly delightful experience, as long as our fulfillment of their basic needs is kept pretty much on schedule… their schedule. Babies aren’t as fragile as parents sometimes fear. It’s most likely that your baby enjoys the trip. Babies aren’t as fragile as parents sometimes fear. It’s most likely that
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
Dehydration
Dehydration due to a combination of heat and gastrointestinal problems is common among travelers. Make sure that there is adequate fluid intake, including some “sports drinks”. Babies and young children will dehydrate very quickly and should seek medical attention for gastro-intestinal problems sooner than adults (within 24 hrs).
Accident
Accidental death is still the largest cause of demise in travelers worldwide. Wear your seatbelt, helmet, and protective clothing because you need to, not because the law (or lack of it) says you have to. Surfing accidents too, have taken a remarkable toll on the Island each year.