Keeping your family healthy in Phuket comes with its own set of challenges. The island’s tropical climate means high humidity, intense heat, and a longer rainy season, which can lead to increased risks of bacterial infections, mosquito-borne diseases, and food spoilage. Air quality is generally better than in Bangkok, but allergens, mould, and seasonal haze can still affect young children.
After years of living here, we’ve picked up some useful tips to help keep the whole family healthy.
1. Make Hand Washing a Habit
Regular handwashing is one of the easiest ways to prevent illnesses like hand, foot & mouth disease, food poisoning, and common colds. Teach kids to wash their hands thoroughly, especially after playing outside, using the toilet, and before meals. If you’re out and about, carry hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes for quick cleaning.
2. Be Cautious at Playdates & Public Play Areas
Germs spread quickly in shared spaces, and Phuket has plenty of playgrounds, indoor play areas, and soft-play centres where bacteria can thrive. Encourage handwashing before and after playdates and clean frequently used toys at home. If your child is sick, it’s best to skip social activities to prevent spreading illnesses.
3. Pay Attention to Food Temperatures
Food-borne illnesses can be particularly severe for young children. Follow these precautions to reduce the risk:
- Watch food temperatures: Keep perishable foods out of the danger zone (4°C – 60°C).
- Check seafood freshness: Phuket is famous for seafood, but ensure it’s fresh and properly stored.
- Be cautious with street food: Stick to busy vendors with high turnover and avoid pre-cooked items left sitting in the heat.
- Store meat safely: If frozen meat is already soft at the supermarket, it has likely been improperly stored.
4. Wash Fruits & Vegetables Thoroughly
Locally grown and imported produce can have high pesticide levels. Wash fruits and vegetables in a vinegar-water solution (4 parts water, 1 part vinegar) for 20 minutes before rinsing. If possible, choose organic produce from local farms or trusted suppliers.
5. Manage Allergens & Indoor Air Quality
Phuket’s tropical climate can lead to high humidity, which encourages mould growth and dust mites—common triggers for allergies. Reduce exposure by:
- Using a dehumidifier or air purifier to control humidity and filter out pollutants.
- Washing bedding and stuffed toys regularly in hot water.
- Choosing hypoallergenic detergents without harsh fragrances or dyes.
- Checking for mould growth in bathrooms, closets, and air-conditioning units.
6. Invest in an Air Purifier
Although Phuket generally has better air quality than Bangkok, seasonal haze from regional crop burning can lead to high PM2.5 levels. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help reduce indoor air pollution, particularly if anyone in your family has asthma or respiratory issues.
7. Protect Against Mosquitoes
Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever are a year-round risk in Phuket. To reduce exposure:
- Use mosquito repellent (spray, stickers, or bracelets) daily.
- Dress children in light, long-sleeved clothing when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Eliminate standing water around the house to prevent breeding.
- Use citronella or lemongrass spray to repel mosquitoes naturally.
- Install mosquito screens on windows and doors.
8. Stay Up to Date with Vaccinations
Vaccination schedules can vary by country, so if you’ve recently moved to Phuket, check with a local pediatrician to ensure your child is up to date. Commonly recommended vaccines in Thailand include:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Japanese Encephalitis
- Dengue (for older children in high-risk areas)
- Influenza (annually)
- Routine childhood immunisations
Hospitals like Bangkok Hospital Phuket, Siriroj International Hospital, and Mission Hospital offer vaccination programs tailored to expats and long-term residents.
Raising a family in Phuket has its challenges, but with the right precautions, it’s easy to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. By staying mindful of hygiene, food safety, air quality, and mosquito prevention, you can enjoy everything the island has to offer while keeping your family safe.
