Japan (Lonely Planet, 11th Edition) - Chris Rowthorn [660]
Most hospitals and clinics have regular hours where they will see patients (usually in the morning).
Hotels and ryokans that cater to foreigners will usually know the best hospitals in a particular area (also, they will know hospitals with English-speaking doctors).
Dental services are widespread and of good standard; they’re reasonably priced, but it’s probably best to have a check-up before you leave home.
Tourist offices operated by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO;) have lists of English-speaking doctors and dentists, and hospitals where English is spoken. You can contact your insurance company or embassy to locate the nearest English-speaking facility.
Drugs that require a prescription in the West also generally require one in Japan. Ensure you bring adequate supplies of your own medications from home.
There are certain medications that are illegal to bring into Japan, including some commonly used cough and cold medications such as pseudoephedrine (found in Actifed, Sudafed etc) and codeine. Some prescription medications not allowed into Japan include narcotics, psychotropic drugs, stimulants and codeine. If you need to take more than a one-month supply of any other prescription drug, you should check with your local Japanese embassy, because you may need permission. Ensure that you have a letter from your doctor outlining your medical condition and the need for any prescription medication.
Return to beginning of chapter
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
AIDS & STDs
There is less risk of contracting AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) and STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) by abstaining from sexual contact with new partners. Condom use in Japanese society is relatively low. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is still relatively uncommon in Japan, but the incidence is slowly increasing. In the year 2008, 89% of new cases were contracted via sexual contact. Condoms can help prevent some sexually transmitted infections, but not all. If you have had sexual contact with a new partner while travelling, or have any symptoms such as a rash, pain or discharge, see a doctor for a full STD check-up.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a virus spread via body fluids, eg through sexual contact, unclean medical facilities or shared needles. People who carry the virus are often unaware they are carriers. In the short term, hepatitis B can cause the typical symptoms of hepatitis – jaundice, tiredness and nausea – but in the long term it can lead to cancer of the liver and cirrhosis. Vaccination against hepatitis B is now part of most countries’ routine childhood vaccination schedule and should be considered by anyone travelling for a long period of time or who may have contact with body fluids.
Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E is a virus spread via contaminated food and water. There have been a number of cases reported in Japan, linked to eating boar and deer meat, and undercooked pork liver. The disease causes jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), tiredness and nausea. There is no specific treatment, and those infected usually recover after four to six weeks. However, it can be a disaster for pregnant women, with a death rate for both mother and baby of up to 30% in the third trimester. Pregnant women should be particularly careful to avoid eating any undercooked foods. There is no vaccine yet available to prevent hepatitis E.
Influenza
Influenza is generally transmitted between November and April. Symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, runny nose, cough and sore throat. It can be a very severe illness in those aged over 65 or with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. Vaccination is recommended for these high-risk travellers or for anyone who wishes to reduce their risk of catching the illness. There is no specific treatment for ‘the flu’, just rest and paracetamol.
Japanese B Encephalitis
Japanese B encephalitis is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It is a rare disease in travellers and the vaccine is part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule in Japan. Risk exists in rural areas