Vacation Diseases: Staying Healthy While Traveling

August marks the peak of vacation season, with many people taking time off to relax, explore new destinations, and enjoy the summer. However, as you plan your dream getaway, it’s important to remember that the potential risk of exposure to various illnesses comes along with the excitement of travel. These “vacation diseases” can quickly turn a relaxing trip into an unpleasant experience, making it essential for travelers to be aware of potential health risks and take preventive measures. Read more and learn how to stay healthy while traveling.

• Traveler’s Diarrhea: One of the most common ailments affecting travelers, especially in developing countries, is traveler’s diarrhea. It is typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms include loose stools, abdominal cramps, and dehydration. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 70% of travelers may experience this condition, depending on the destination.
• Malaria: Malaria remains a significant concern in tropical and subtropical regions. The bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito transmits it. Symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like illness. Without prompt treatment, malaria can be life-threatening. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates there were 241 million malaria cases globally in 2020.
• Dengue Fever: Another mosquito-borne disease, dengue fever, is prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas. It causes high fever, severe headaches, and joint and muscle pain and sometimes leads to dengue hemorrhagic fever, a more severe form of the disease. The WHO notes that dengue incidence has increased dramatically in recent decades, with about half of the world’s population at risk.
• Respiratory Infections: Traveling in crowded places such as airports, buses, and tourist attractions increases the risk of respiratory infections, including the common cold, influenza, and even COVID-19. These illnesses are easily transmitted through droplets in the air or by touching contaminated surfaces.
• Heat-Related Illnesses: Exposure to high temperatures, especially in tropical destinations, can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid pulse, and confusion. These conditions can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

To minimize the risk of vacation diseases, travelers should take several preventive measures:

• Vaccinations: Ensure that vaccinations are up-to-date, including those for hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, and influenza, depending on the destination.
• Food and Water Safety: Drink bottled or boiled water, avoid ice, and eat well-cooked foods. Peel fruits yourself and avoid street food if unsure of its safety.
• Insect Protection: Use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets in areas where malaria and dengue fever are prevalent.
• Personal Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and use hand sanitizers when soap and water are unavailable.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness abroad.

• CDC. “Travelers’ Health: Traveler’s Diarrhea.“ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Destinations | Travelers’ Health | CDC
• WHO. “World Malaria Report 2021.“ World Health Organization, World malaria report 2021 (who.int)
• WHO. “Dengue and Severe Dengue.” World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue.
• WHO. “Vaccination for Travel.“ World Health Organization, Travel advice (who.int)