Claire's Articles
Health
Over the years a question that my staff and I always seem to get has to with travel diseases. Of course this is not something that we want to think about while were on holiday, but the reality is that is does happen - in this article I'm going to talk about some of the most common sicknesses and how you can prevent getting infected.
MALARIA
What: This potentially fatal disease is caused by a parasite and is usually transmitted by a bite from an infected mosquito.
Where: It can be contracted in large areas of Central and South America, the Dominican Republic and Haiti, parts of Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and the South Pacific.
Prevent it: Ask your doctor to prescribe the appropriate prevention before traveling-usually mefloquine or chloroquine, depending where you're going. It also helps to take measures to prevent mosquito bites, like protecting your skin with a repellent that contains DEET.
GIARDIASIS
What: An intestinal parasite that causes gastroenteritis, it's usually contracted by travelers by consuming contaminated water or food.
Where: Everywhere
Prevent it: Stick to bottled or boiled water and be wary of uncooked vegetables.
HEPATITIS
What: This virus appears in many forms but hepatitis A is the one most travelers should be concerned with. It can be transmitted through contaminated water or uncooked foods, resulting in either a mild illness or a debilitating, months-long disease that includes fever and nausea.
Where: Usually in third world countries-although outbreaks have been known to occur in parts of the U.S.
Prevent it: Hepatitis A vaccine is very effective in prevention, so it's a good idea to be up-to-date on your inoculations
MONTEZUMA'S REVENGE
What: Traveler's diarrhea
Where: Everywhere-though high-risk areas include parts of Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Mexico and Central and South America.
Prevent it: Watch what you eat and drink-stick to bottled or boiled drinks and avoid raw foods. Taking Pepto-Bismol and acidophilus (good bacteria found in yogurt) can help.
DENGUE
What: A viral disease transmitted by a bite from an infected mosquito that can cause severe flu-like illness.
Where: South Pacific, Asia, the Caribbean, the Americas, and Africa.
Prevent it: There's no vaccine. Once again, do all you can to prevent mosquito bites.
NOROVIRUS
What: A virus spread through inadequately treated food or water that can cause acute gastroenteritis.
Where: Throughout the world - Outbreaks aboard cruise ships have received lots of publicity in the past. It can occur really anywhere people are in close quarters.
Prevent it: Prevention can be tough, since norovirus is common and easily transmittable. Keep your hands washed and try to avoid "ready-to-eat" cold foods and raw shellfish.
Nobody wants to get sick on holiday, not to mention something scary that you can take home with you. As you can see above, many of these diseases are carried by mosquitoes - proving that these pests can be more than simply annoying. Make sure that you take precautions before traveling and do your research. It's better to be safe than sorry!
MEDICINE TO PACK:
Antibiotics (depending on where you're travelling to)
Antihistamines
Anti-itch lotion
Antiseptic ointment
Motion sickness remedies
Pain relievers
Remedies for stomach upsets and diarrhea
