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5. Health
There are very few risks to your health in Taiwan. Malaria, an endemic
disease in other parts of Southeast Asia, is completely absent,
as is rabies.
However, Hepatitis A can be contracted, especially in rural areas.
This disease is acquired because of poor sanitation, so be careful
to eat from clean glasses and utensils. Avoid drinking straight
from bottles and cans.
In addition, Hepatitis B and C are present in Taiwan, though immunization
programs have limited them among the younger generation. These are
contracted through blood transfusion or sexual contact. In addition,
sexually transmitted diseases and HIV, which can lead to AIDS, are
not unknown in Taiwan. While levels are relatively low, let's all
work to keep it that way. As anywhere else, do not use unsanitized
needles and practice safe sex.
Japanese B encephalitis, a mosquito-borne virus, occurs in small
numbers in Taiwan. A few cases of dengue fever, also passed by mosquitoes,
have been reported in the last few years, contracted in wooded areas
of northern Taiwan. Although these diseases pose very little danger,
you may want to see a doctor about immunization for them before
you go, and make sure you're up to date on other immunization shots.
Should you need one, there are a number of good hospitals in Taiwan.
Those who prefer alternative medicine may wish to try the many Chinese
medicine clinics on the island.
6. Driving Licenses
Foreign visitors can drive legally in Taiwan with an international
driver's license and their driver's license from home.
If you stay for longer periods of time, you must get a local Taiwan
license. However, with a valid international driver's license you
can receive a Taiwan license without taking any tests (you'll also
need your home country's license, an eye exam certificate from a
register clinic, and six passport-standard photos).
If you don't have an international driver's license, English-language
tests are available for a local Taiwan license.
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