The Hidden Dangers of Travel: Protecting Yourself from Infectious Diseases Abroad
The Hidden Dangers of Travel: Protecting Yourself from Infectious Diseases Abroad
Travelling is one of life’s most enriching experiences. However, it comes with its own set of risks, especially when it comes to infectious diseases. While most of us prepare for a trip by packing sunscreen, currency, and our passports, protection against infectious diseases should be high on the packing list too.
Here are some hidden dangers of travel, how you can protect yourself from infectious diseases abroad:
1. Infectious Diseases
Travellers are exposed to different diseases in different parts of the world, and some diseases are more common than others. Some illnesses to be aware of on your travels include:
Malaria: This is a life-threatening disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.
Dengue fever: This is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, and body aches.
Yellow fever: This is a viral hemorrhagic fever transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, jaundice, and hemorrhage.
How to protect yourself from infectious diseases:
Before travelling, check with your doctor about necessary vaccinations and medications. Also, protect yourself from mosquitoes by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and using mosquito nets.
2. Food and waterborne illness
One of the great pleasures of travel is sampling new foods; however, a change in cuisine and hygiene can sometimes cause digestive issues, a situation that can be uncomfortable at best, and serious at worst. When travelling, be sure to follow these precautions:
Avoid eating food from street vendors and be cautious about eating raw, undercooked or poorly cooked meat or seafood.
Drink only bottled or boiled water, and be sure to use bottled water for brushing your teeth.
How to protect yourself from food and waterborne illness:
Wash your hands frequently to avoid the spread of germs. When selecting food, go for hot, freshly cooked meals and fruits that can be peeled. Avoid tap water, ice cubes, and fountain drinks, and use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
3. Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness occurs in some individuals when travelling to high elevations. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
How to protect yourself from altitude sickness:
When travelling to high elevations, give yourself time to acclimate by gradually increasing your elevation each day. Also, avoid strenuous activity for the first few days of your trip.
FAQs:
Q: What immunizations do I need for travelling abroad?
A: The immunizations you may need depend on your destination, duration of travel, and current health status. Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and medications before your travel.
Q: Can I eat food from street vendors while travelling abroad?
A: It is best to avoid eating food from street vendors as it may pose a risk of foodborne illness. Instead, go for hot, freshly cooked meals and fruits that can be peeled.
Q: What should I do if I experience symptoms of altitude sickness while travelling abroad?
A: If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness while travelling, seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, knowing the risks and how to protect yourself from infectious diseases during your travels can make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful. Always take necessary precautions and consider getting travel insurance that covers emergency medical care in case you fall sick while abroad.
External site links:
1. WHO Global Traveler Webpage: https://www.who.int/ith/en/
2. CDC Travelers’ Health Page: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
3. Travel Health Pro website by UK National Health Service: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/
