Last updated: 28 Mar 2013
Security and health
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller site provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to China. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
It is strongly recommended that Australian travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before their departure. They should confirm that their insurance covers them for the whole time they will be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in their policy.
It is also recommended for Australian travellers to register, before travelling, on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website, in case of an emergency.
Health
Latest Update: Please note the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller site has recently been updated on cases in humans of strain (H7N9) avian influenza in China.
There are a number of basic health precautions to reduce the risk of illness while visiting China:
- Check with your doctor about recommended immunisations and general health matters prior to visiting China.
- No special vaccinations are required, but those travelling from an infected area before coming to China should have vaccination records available.
- Do not drink local water. Bottled water is readily available from supermarkets and convenience stores.
- Uncooked food or unpeeled fruit should be avoided.
- Medical treatment is likely to be on a cash payment basis.
- Travel and medical insurance is necessary, and an emergency evacuation service is recommended for travel in more remote parts of central or western China.
- Travel to high-attitude areas such as Tibet is not recommended for those with pulmonary or heart problems.
- To reduce the risk of airborne disease, avoid crowded public transport, particularly in rural areas.
- Carry prescription documentation for medicines you have been authorised to take by your doctor in Australia.
- Bring your own basic medical kit for travel outside the major cities, and carry sufficient quantities of any necessary prescription medications.
In Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and some other large cities, there are a number of Western-style clinics. Major hospitals also provide a reasonable standard of emergency health care for foreign visitors at inflated prices. For consular assistance, travellers should contact:
Australian Embassy
21 Dongzhimenwai Dajie
Sanlitun Beijing 100600
Tel: +86 10 5140 4111
Australian Consulate General Level 22, CITIC Square
1168 Nanjing Xi Lu
Shanghai 200041
Tel: +86 21 5292 5500
Australian Consulate General 12th Floor, Development
Centre, No.3 Linjiang Road
Zhujiang New City
Guangzhou 510623
Tel: +86 20 3814 0111