Travel to developing countries
Description
An in-depth report on travel-related health risks and how to prepare ahead of time to reduce these risks.
Alternative Names
Cholera; Dengue fever; Traveler's diarrhea; Malaria; Schistosomiasis; Typhoid; Yellow fever
Highlights
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There is no vaccine against traveler's diarrhea (TD), which affects up to 60% of travelers to underdeveloped nations. Most cases of TD are acquired by drinking contaminated water or eating food washed or grown with contaminated water. Simple precautions can prevent most cases of TD. There is no vaccine against TD, which is caused by several types of bacteria. Cholera vaccine, which can protect some travelers, is an exception.
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Despite alarming reports of deaths from "bird flu," infection with avian influenza type A is rare. Those who have acquired this virus have come in contact with infected caged birds (wild birds or poultry), eaten raw or undercooked poultry, or have been in contact with bird feces. Avoiding these risks can prevent transmission of the virus from birds that carry the disease, but do not appear to be ill. The World Health Organization is monitoring the spread of bird flu, but does not consider it a risk for travelers who take the above precautions.
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Sitting in a car, train, or plane for hours at a time increases the risk of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT). Everyone is at risk, but people with cardiovascular disease or its risk factors, recent surgery, cancer, and those taking oral contraceptives are at highest risk. Risk can be reduced by periodically moving the legs, walking, wearing compression stockings, and drinking plenty of fluids.
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When you travel, consider taking the phone number and address of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your destination country in case you need the name of a doctor to contact after you arrive.
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Review Date: 1/23/2007
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Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital
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