Health, vaccinations and medical care in Bangladesh

The ambulance, and when not to wait for it

• Call 999 and ask for an ambulance. For a suspected heart attack, ask specifically for a cardiac ambulance, which is a different vehicle.
• The FCDO says it may be faster to drive to the nearest hospital yourself if you have a vehicle. That is unusual advice and it is worth taking seriously in Dhaka traffic.
• Call your insurer as soon as you are referred anywhere.

Mosquitoes

• Dengue occurs year-round and is more widespread in the rainy season from May to September, and cases are increasing, including in Dhaka.
• Malaria, chikungunya and Zika are also present.
• There is no tablet for dengue. Repellent, long sleeves, and a room with screens or air conditioning.

Air

• Severe air pollution from November to March. If you have asthma or a heart condition, that is a season to plan around.

Care and medicines

• Medical facilities are poor and routine tests and X-rays are unreliable. Anything serious means evacuation, so the insurance has to cover it and you need access to money.
• Carry your prescriptions and medical papers, and be ready to answer police questions about any medication you have with you.