When travel to another country or city, it is quite troublesome if something emergent happened. For instance, what if you suffered from a bad cold? Here TOC will offer some useful information about dealing with emergencies, especially medical emergencies, in China. You are assured to benefit a lot from it!
Common Threats to Travelers' Health
Moter Vehicle Accidents
In China, moter vehicle accident is an important factor to cause medical emergencies. As car ownership is growing day by day, drivers seem to become more "brave" than ever and common driving courtesies are often ignored, greatly endangering pedestrians and byciclists. Thus you must take care of yourself when walking on the street and always be cautious when meet crossings.
Malaria
Car accidents are not the only health concern in China. While it is not common in urban areas, malaria can be a problem in rural areas below 4,900 feet. With the proper vaccination and plenty of insect repellent, exposure to this disease can be limited. However, before your traveling to China, you should ask your doctor for advice. Tell him or her where in China you will be visiting, as China has different types of malaria: one chloroquine-resistant and one chloroquine-sensitive and each requires a different prophylactic drug.
Altitude sickness
Altitude sickness may affect travelers in Western China. It usually occurs above 8,000 feet and is caused by concentration of oxygen. It may take time for travelers to be accustomed to a new altitude, thus plenty of water is always needed to overcome it. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, rapid heart rate and shortness of breath. If left untreated, the condition can be worsen and may become fatal. The obvious cure for altitude sickness is to turn to a lower elevation, although there are several pharmaceutical treatments as well. Diamox can help stimulate breathing, supplemental oxygen may help if there is fluid in the lungs, and high blood presure medication may also aid in controlling the bad effects of altitude sickness.
Other health concerns in China include dengue faver, Japanese encephalitis and leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease spreas by sand flies. Avold poultry markets, and if you will interact with birds, including chickens and other domesticated fowl, avain influenza should be a concern. Just protect yourself from virus that may cause health problems.
Hospitals and Medical Clinics in China
Peking Union Medical College Hospital
Address: 1, Shuaifu Yuan, Wangfujing, Dongcheng District (East Section )
Address: 41, Damu Cang, Xidan, Xicheng District (West Section)
Special Room for foreign patients (for reference): CNY800/day (single room) CNY1500/day (suite)
Nutritious Meals (including breakfast, lunch and supper): CNY90/day
Brief introduction: With a history of over a hundred years, the hospital is welcomed by Americans and Europeans. The foreign clinic accepts over 100 patients each day. There are altogether 100 special sickbeds for foreigners. Some international medical care organizations also have agreements with Peking Union Medical College Hospital, including European First Aid Center, Asia First Aid Center and International SOS First Aid Center.
Beijing Friendship Hospital
Address: 95, Yong'an Lu, Tianqiao, Xuanwu District
How to get there: take bus NO.15, 25, 50, 6.
Special Room for foreign patients (for reference): CNY240/day (single room)
Nutritious Meals (including breakfast, lunch and supper): CNY90/day
Brief introduction: Patients from East Asia always choose it as their preference. Kidney Transplantation Operations in Beijing Friendship Hospital have a high reputation around the world with a comparatively lower price (only 40% in costs comparing with developed countries).
Beijing International Medical Center
Address: 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
Tel: 6465 1907
Regular Hours: 8:30 a.m.---5:30 p.m.How to get there: take bus NO. 405, 416, 420, 421, 499, 503, 516, 627, 671, 672, 675, 701, 707 and get off at Yanshaqiao Nan Stop.
Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinic
Address: 2, Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District
Tel: 59277000
Emergency: 59277120
Editor's words:
Sickness is really a big problem that will bother travelers a lot, or may even ruin the whole journey. Thus do take care of yourself and if sadly you got sick, please get medical treatment as soon as possible. Wish you a happy tour in China!
