Advertorial What are the health risks of Songkran?

[CharlieH]

 

Songkran marks the Thai New Year, celebrated with water fights, cultural rituals, and quality time with loved ones. While it's a festive time, the intense heat, crowds, and water play can also pose health risks. Here’s how to stay safe during the celebrations—and why having health insurance like Cigna can offer peace of mind.

Health risks from dirty water

During water fights, the water used may contain bacteria, viruses, or fungi, leading to:

• Eye infections, especially for contact lens wearers

• Colds and flu, from inhaling contaminated droplets

• Skin rashes or infections, particularly on cuts or irritated skin

Simple precautions:

• Drink only bottled, boiled, or filtered water—tap water isn’t safe

• Wash hands often, or use hand sanitiser if soap isn’t available

• Stay away from dirty water sources like rivers or ponds
  Check with your doctor before travel about vaccines like typhoid or cholera
   

If you do fall ill, Cigna gives access to quality hospitals and fast treatment, helping avoid large medical costs. Ideal for tourists and expats alike.

Avoiding heat-related illness

April is Thailand’s hottest month, with temperatures in Bangkok or Chiang Mai often reaching 35 to 40°C. This can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Watch for symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or nausea.

Stay cool by:

• Drinking plenty of water—aim for 8 glasses a day

• Limiting alcohol, sugary drinks, and caffeine

• Taking breaks in shade or air-conditioned areas

• Try to avoid the sun between 11am to 3pm

• Wearing loose, light-colored clothing and a hat

Stay safe in busy celebrations

Water games and crowded streets can increase the risk of slipping or injuries. Wet roads, playful shoving, and packed venues are common during Songkran.

 

 

How to prevent injuries:

• Wear shoes with good grip—avoid smooth soles or flip-flops

• Walk, don’t run, on wet surfaces

• Be cautious in crowds—watch your step and avoid pushing

• Carry a secure bag and leave valuables at home

• Stay hydrated and know how to exit busy areas if needed

 

Eating street food safely

Thai street food is delicious, but during Songkran’s hot season, but we never know how its cooked or stored, which can lead to food poisoning if we’re not careful.

What to watch for:

• Choose clean, busy food stalls with fresh, hot meals

• Avoid undercooked or raw food, especially meat and seafood

• Wash your hands before eating or use hand gel

• Observe how food is handled and cooked

When to get medical help

Some symptoms should not be ignored during Songkran:

• High fever (over 39°C) or lasting more than 3 days

• Signs of dehydration, like dry mouth, dizziness, or dark urine

• Severe stomach pain, vomiting, or blood in stool

• Injuries that are deep, swollen, or bleeding heavily

How Cigna supports you

With Cigna, travellers and expats can enjoy Songkran stress-free, knowing they have access to trusted care whenever needed. Here are some benefits:

• Emergency care at leading Thai hospitals

• Outpatient coverage for less serious symptoms

• Wide hospital network for quick treatment even during peak periods

 

 

No doubt that Songkran is a fun and lively celebration, but safety matters. Stay healthy by drinking safe water, protecting your skin and eyes, eating well-prepared food, and knowing when to seek help. Having reliable insurance like Cigna ensures you get quick, quality care throughout the festivities.

 

 

Sponsored - Original article by The Thaiger

[songhklasid]

To me, the biggest danger is drunk locals on motorbikes, or be carefull riding a bike , be aware of that unexpected bucket of water coming from a doorway . 
cheers sawat dee pee Mai . 
SS. 

[Bruce Aussie]

Obsoletely none. Been there done that.

Stay home that week or only local lodge.

The water thrown about is often of lower quality than toilet water before flushing.

Anyway for those who enjoy go for it but remember keep your mouth shut.🤣

[Ben Zioner]

10 minutes ago, Bruce Aussie said:

Obsoletely none. Been there done that.

Maybe, but so many newly.

[KannikaP]

9 minutes ago, Bruce Aussie said:

Obsoletely none. Been there done that.

Stay home that week or only local lodge.

The water thrown about is often of lower quality than toilet water before flushing.

Anyway for those who enjoy go for it but remember keep your mouth shut.🤣

New one on me........Obsoletely. You mean Absolutely

[Snackbar]

Gold diggers, STDs, dignity

[sikishrory]

Getting gunned down

[black tabby12345]

Health risk at Songkran in Chiang Mai old city.

 

Bacterial infection: Near the moat(boundary of the old city and outside).

Quite a few locals splash filthy water from the pool (into which life sewerage flows).

 

So during that period, I always stay put during the day.

I stockpile enough food beforehand and avoid going out.

 

[Bruce Aussie]

None if you keep you keep your mouth closed and don't swallow second hand water.