Bangladesh

Översikt

The most significant security risks in Bangladesh are associated with  civil unrest and  natural disasters. Opposition parties frequently arrange mass protests, which regularly descend into episodes of violence between security forces and demonstrators. The two main political parties, the Awami League (AL) and the Bangladesh National Party (BNP), often organise protests and labour strikes (hartals) in reaction to varying political and socio-economic issues. Violent protests relating to single issues organised by local community groups are rather common and can be unpredictable.

High urban population density, poverty and bad governance have resulted in a high rate of petty crime. Serious organised crime is a growing problem, with a number of well-established groups - often linked to cyber and financial crime - developing across the country. Road conditions and driving standards are poor, resulting in a high rate of traffic accidents.

Islamist militancy and terrorism are growing concerns in the country. The main groups that have been targets in incidents in recent years include secularists and foreign personnel.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Bangladesh. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

Dengue is endemic in Bangladesh, and risk is present throughout the country year-round with peak transmission during the monsoon season, from June to September. There have been confirmed cases of dengue in Chittagong, Dhaka, and Khulna.

Malaria risk is present in the rural areas of Dhaka, Mymensingh, Rangpur, Sylhet Divisions. High risk is present in the urban and rural areas of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Badarban, Rangamati and Khargchhari of Chittagong Division. The city of Dhaka is risk free. The use of anti-malarial medications (Lariam, Malarone, or doxycycline) is recommended for all areas. This prophylaxis should be supported by the use of insect repellent, mosquito nets and long-sleeved clothing around the hours of dusk.

Bangladesh has risk of ongoing Chikungunya transmission. Insect protection measures are essential.

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

Sporadic cases of Japanese Encephalitis are reported throughout Bangladesh. Transmission occurs from May to October.

Typhoid fever vaccination is recommended if traveling to Bangladesh.

Travellers should be aware of the risks associated with travellers’ ailments such as diarrhoea. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been filtered and boiled. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

Tuberculosis is highly endemic in Bangladesh.

The standard of medical facilities in Dhaka is low and limited outside of Dhaka. The ambulance service and the equipment in emergency rooms are very limited throughout the country. Counterfeit medicines are a problem, although those purchased in major pharmacies and hospitals are reliable. In case of serious conditions or complicated procedures, medical evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore is often required (medical evacuation insurance necessary). Payment before receiving medical treatment and / or advice is usually expected.

Pass

Citizens from all countries are required to have an official passport when entering Bangladesh, valid for six months beyond the planned duration of stay. Travellers are expected to obtain a valid visa preferably from the country of citizenship before coming.

Visum

Visas on arrival are available for travelers from the EU, United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, China among others for the purpose of official duty, business, investment and tourism as well as for individuals whose country does not have a Bangladeshi diplomatic mission.