As of December 2008, the World Health Organization has issued a warning about an ongoing rabies outbreak on Bali. Travelers to Bali need to be aware of this situation as they plan their outdoor activities. Avoid animals, especially bats, during your trip.
Malaria does exist across Indonesia, but not on Bali. If your trip is only to Bali, you do not need an antimalarial medication.
Check with your doctor to make sure that you are caught up on common vaccinations before your trip. You may need additional shots for hepatitis A and B before you leave.
One of the best ways to prevent infection of insect-borne diseases is to prevent insect bites. Using bug spray, wearing long sleeves and staying indoors at dusk and dawn are all important steps in avoiding bites and stings.
Food-borne illnesses are a common traveler's complaint. Most of them are temporary and cause vomiting and diarrhea. Wash your hands often, always with soap, especially before eating. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizing gel that is at leas 60 percent alcohol. Drink only bottled water or canned or bottled bubbly drinks. Avoid tap water, fountain sodas, ice cubes and dairy products that have not been pasteurized.
If you take a prescription medicine, take it with you in the original bottle in your carry-on luggage. If the medicines are liquid, follow the security guidelines of the Transportation Security Administration and your airline. The CDC also recommends traveling with an over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medicine, sunblock, bug spray and hand sanitizer.
Check with the CDC or the State Department for any developing health alerts before your trip.
