🏥Medical Guide for Foreigners travelling in Kunming

Kunming, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," boasts a mild climate year-round (average 15–20°C) and rich cultural diversity. However, its unique environment poses specific health considerations:

• Altitude: At 1,900m elevation, mild altitude sickness may occur.

• UV Exposure: Intense sunlight (UV index 8–12) increases sunburn risks.

• Local Cuisine: Spicy Yunnan dishes (e.g., Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles) may trigger gastrointestinal issues.

• Rainy Season (May–October): Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue) and fungal infections are possible.

1. Common Health Issues & Recommended Medical Guide

Health Issue	Causes	Immediate Action	Recommended Facility
Altitude Sickness	High elevation (1,900m)	Rest, hydrate, avoid alcohol. Seek oxygen therapy if symptoms persist.	Yunnan Provincial First People’s Hospital
Gastroenteritis	Spicy food, unfamiliar ingredients	Take oral rehydration salts (ORS); avoid oily foods.	Kunming First People's Hospital
Sunburn/Heatstroke	Strong UV radiation	Apply SPF50+ sunscreen; use aloe vera gel. Seek shade if dizzy.	First Affiliated Hospital Kunming Medical University
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses	Rainy season mosquitoes	Use DEET repellent; seek care for sudden fever/rash.	Kunming Third People’s Hospital
Minor Injuries (Hiking)	Stone Forest trails, uneven terrain	Clean wounds with antiseptic; apply bandages.	First Affiliated Hospital Kunming Medical University

2. Recommended Public Hospitals in Kunming

Hospital	Specialties	Address	Contact	Notes
First Affiliated Hospital Kunming Medical University	Altitude sickness, General care	295 Xichang Rd, Wuhua District	+86-871-6532-4888	24/7 ER; limited English support.
Yunnan Provincial First People’s Hospital	Gastroenterology, Infectious diseases	157 Jinbi Rd, Xishan District	+86-871-6364-5556	Public Grade 3A facility.
Kunming First People’s Hospital	Emergency, Altitude care	504 Qingnian Rd, Xishan District	+86-871-6316-3476	Oxygen therapy available.
Second Affiliated Hospital Kunming Medical University	Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery	374 Dianmian Ave, Wuhua Distric	+86-871-65355128	Public Grade 3A facility.

Note: All listed are Grade 3A (China’s highest standard).

3. Pediatric Care in Kunming

Kunming Children’s Hospital

• Address: 288 Qianxing Rd, Xishan District

• Contact: +86-871-6330-9191

• Services:

  • 24/7 pediatric emergency care

  • Vaccinations (bring international immunization records)

  • Treatment for common childhood illnesses (e.g., hand-foot-mouth disease)

• Translation: Use apps like Microsoft Translator; staff English proficiency is limited.

4. Emergency Protocols

• Ambulance: Dial 120 → Say “wàijí bìngrén” (外籍病人, “foreign patient”).

• Police Assistance: Dial 110 → Request medical help with “wàijí yīliáo” (外籍医疗).

• Consulate Support:

  • US Consulate in Chengdu (covers Kunming): +86-28-8558-3992.

  • 24/7 Translation Hotline: +86-10-12308 (Chinese government service).

5. Practical Tips

• Insurance: Confirm coverage for China; public hospitals require upfront payment (cash/Alipay).

• Documentation: Request:

  • 病历本 (Medical Record)

  • 发票 (Official Invoice)

  • 检查报告 (Test Results)

• Altitude Precautions: Avoid strenuous activity for first 24 hours; hydrate with bottled water.

• Air Quality: PM2.5 averages 50–80 μg/m³; sensitive travelers should carry masks.