What to Do If You Get Sick in Bali: Step-by-Step Plan (Tourist-Friendly)
Bali is a destination loved for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming spirit. However, falling ill while traveling can disrupt even the best-planned holiday. Whether you develop Bali belly, a fever, or simply feel under the weather, knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in your recovery and peace of mind.
This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will walk you through what to do if you get sick in Bali. With up-to-date advice based on trusted international health sources and local expertise, you’ll know exactly how to take care of yourself as a tourist and where to turn for reliable, English-speaking medical help.
Step 1: Assess Your Symptoms
Recognize Common Illnesses Among Tourists
The most common ailments affecting visitors to Bali include:
• Bali Belly (traveler’s diarrhea): Characterized by stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Find out more about Bali Belly symptoms and care.
• Fever and Flu-like Symptoms: May signal flu, dengue fever, or even COVID-19.
• Food Poisoning or Intolerance: Symptoms often overlap with Bali belly but may include more intense vomiting or allergic reactions. For targeted support, see our Food Intolerance IV Therapy.
• Jetlag: Fatigue and mild malaise after long flights are common. Consider our Jetlag IV therapy for a quick recovery.
• Dehydration: Due to the tropical climate or illness. Our IV Hydration Package can help.
• Hangover: After enjoying Bali’s nightlife. See our Hangover IV therapies.
When Should You Seek Immediate Help?
• Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F)
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Blood in stool or vomit
• Signs of dehydration: dizziness, confusion, little or no urine output
• If you have underlying health conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
If any of these apply, do not delay calling a medical professional.
Step 2: Self-Care for Mild Symptoms
Rest and Hydration Are Essential
For mild stomach upsets or low-grade fevers:
• Hydrate frequently. Use bottled water only. Oral rehydration solutions are recommended if you have diarrhea or vomiting.
• Avoid solid foods until symptoms settle. Gradually reintroduce bland food such as rice or bananas.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Rest in a cool environment.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Most pharmacies in Bali offer basic medications like paracetamol (acetaminophen) for fever/pain relief and oral rehydration salts. However, self-medicating with antibiotics is strongly discouraged without professional advice.
If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours or worsen at any time, contact a healthcare provider.
Step 3: Contact an English-Speaking Medical Professional
Your Options for Reliable Healthcare in Bali
Language barriers and unfamiliar healthcare systems can be daunting for travelers. Trishnanda Care Centre offers solutions tailored for tourists:
• 24/7 doctor-on-call service: Access experienced English-speaking doctors and nurses at any hour with our convenient mobile clinic model. Learn more about our Doctor-on-Call service here.
• Mobile IV therapies: We bring hydration, immunity boosters, Bali belly relief and more directly to your hotel or villa no need to travel when you’re unwell.
• Nurse visits: For check-ups, injections, wound care and more right where you are staying.
• Bali-wide coverage: Immediate assistance across all major tourist areas of the island.
No matter your location in Bali Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud or beyond we offer free island-wide delivery for medication and supplies as part of our commitment to your comfort and health.
Step 4: Diagnostic Testing When Needed
The Importance of Timely Diagnosis
If your symptoms suggest something more serious than a simple stomach bug (for example: high fever with aches could be dengue fever or COVID-19), getting tested quickly is crucial.
• Dengue NS1 + CBC test: Recommended if you have fever with muscle pain or rash during Bali’s rainy season.
• Certain viral illnesses: COVID-19 rapid antigen tests are available on-site for prompt results.
• Bacterial infections/STDs: In-villa lab tests can cover a range of concerns from urinary tract infections to STDs. See all available diagnostic services on our Tests page here.
Our mobile team brings laboratory testing directly to your accommodation so you don’t have to risk discomfort by traveling when ill.
Step 5: Treatment Options Tailored to Tourists’ Needs
Avoid Hospital Visits Unless Absolutely Necessary
Many cases of traveler’s illness can be managed safely at your hotel or villa with support from trained professionals. This minimizes exposure risks and saves you time.
• Bali Belly Mom Care IV Therapy: Gentle hydration and electrolyte support for sensitive stomachs or traveling mothers.
• Hydration IV Packages: Rapid rehydration for illness or jetlag recovery.
• Immunity Boosters: Strengthen your immune response against ongoing infections.
• Flu IV Therapy: Relief from flu-like symptoms including aches and fatigue.
• If necessary, we coordinate hospital referrals for severe cases requiring admission (such as persistent high fever not responding to initial treatment).
For those recovering from COVID-19 or other viral infections, consider our specialized therapies like the COVID Recovery Package IV therapy.
You never need to leave your accommodation for care we come directly to you with all equipment needed for safe treatment.
Step 6: Prevention Tips While You Recover (and Beyond)
Avoid Common Pitfalls that Prolong Illness
• Avoid ice in drinks unless you know it’s made from purified water.
• Peeled fruits are safer than unpeeled raw produce from street vendors.
• Avoid swimming in pools if experiencing diarrhea.
• If on antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.
• If you’re traveling with children or elderly relatives, monitor them closely as dehydration occurs faster in these groups.
• If your immune system is compromised (recent illness, pregnancy), ask about preventive IV therapies such as our Vitamin D Booster or Immunity IVs for additional support during your stay.
• Vitamin D IV Booster details here.
• Immunity IV Therapy options here.
For those who want extra protection before falling ill (especially before big events or after long flights), explore preventive options on our promo page:
Latest promotions here..
Step 7: Aftercare & Return to Normal Activities Safely
Your Recovery Checklist Before Resuming Activities:
• No fever for at least 24 hours without medication.
• No ongoing vomiting or diarrhea; able to tolerate normal food/water intake without issues.
• No dizziness upon standing; urine output has returned to normal frequency & color.
• If unsure whether it’s safe to resume activities such as swimming, hiking, yoga retreats, etc., consult with one of our doctors via video call before proceeding.
For a personalized health check before returning to adventure activities around Bali, find out more about our Doctor-on-Call service here..
If you had a specific illness such as dengue fever or severe food poisoning, ask about rehabilitation support such as Iron IVs (Iron package details here).
For ongoing fatigue after illness, consider Myers Cocktail (Myers package info here).
The Trishnanda Advantage: Why Choose Us When Sick in Bali?
• 24/7 immediate response English-speaking doctors & nurses on call day and night.
• We come directly to your villa/hotel anywhere on the island no travel needed when unwell!
• Wide range of therapies: From hydration and immunity boosters to specialized packages for jetlag, dengue recovery, iron deficiency and more.
• In-villa laboratory testing get results fast without leaving your room.
• Free island-wide delivery of medications & medical supplies; focus on recovery while we handle logistics.
• Transparent pricing & tourist-friendly approach no surprise fees; all services explained clearly before treatment begins.
• Discreet care privacy respected especially important for sensitive matters such as STD testing (see lab test info here).
• Tailored packages for families, solo travelers & groups; special care options for pregnant women & children available on request.
• Direct WhatsApp communication so booking is fast & easy speak directly to a medical professional anytime!
Ready For Fast Help? Contact Trishnanda Care Centre Now!
If you are feeling unwell during your Bali holiday don’t wait until things get worse. Reach out now via WhatsApp for immediate advice from our caring team:
Chat with a Doctor on WhatsApp
Your health is our priority so you can get back to enjoying paradise sooner.
This content is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised diagnosis and treatment.