Beginning last year, there have been record numbers of first-time and seasoned travelers booking flights and cruises to international destinations. These locations promise to provide you with life-changing experiences, but also place in a difficult situation the immune-incompetent traveler, who does not have protection from water-borne, respiratory and insect-carrying diseases in many countries. 

If you are traveling to Northern and Western Europe, Japan, Canada, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and the United States, you are at low risk of contracting any travel-related infections, except COVID. Normal adult immunizations, including flu and COVID, will suffice. 

If you are traveling to South and Central America, Mexico, Africa, and South and Southeast Asia, there are precautions you need to take. 

This article will list many of the common travel-related infections that are encountered, and ways you can prevent getting sick. Malaria is a special problem that will be addressed in this article, since it is now appearing again in the United States. 

Common travel problems encountered in developing countries 

Traveler’s diarrhea is by far the most common risk people face when traveling. Depending on the destination, diarrhea can account for 80 percent of medical problems.

There are a number of organisms found in water and food that cause this condition. It begins suddenly, either during the trip or once you are home. It causes watery stools, along with abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and low-grade fever. 

It generally clears in a few days without any specific medication. However, if this persists beyond two days and you are experiencing dehydration, bloody stools, fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit and severe abdominal pain, you need to see a doctor. 

It has been my experience that most hotels and resorts in all countries have physicians on call. 

Additionally, you should discuss the need for antibiotics and other medications, e.g. Imodium or bismuth subsalicylate, with your private physician before your trip. 

Malaria

Malaria is back in the news with recent documentation of five cases in Florida and Texas. These are the first reported cases since 2003. The Plasmodium vivax parasite was found in all five cases. 

The concern voiced by many experts is that our change in weather patterns could be responsible for cases coming north due to global warming in southern states. 

Additionally, people who travel to countries with malaria can bring back the infection and introduce the parasite to local mosquitoes if bitten. 

Another possibility is that due to misuse or overuse of common antimalarials, drug resistance can develop. 

Malaria infects close to one-half of the world’s population. It accounts for 250 million cases annually and 620,000 deaths—mostly in children. 

These numbers will improve with the introduction of the first vaccine for a parasitic infection, especially for children. Other vaccines are also being developed that can protect children from insect-related illnesses. 

Common symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Symptoms appear typically from 10 to 15 days after exposure. 

Severe symptoms can include changes in consciousness, difficulty breathing, convulsions and abnormal bleeding. 

Depending on the countries where you are traveling, there are different oral medications to counter the parasite. You need to start these medications before you leave the country, and take them while you are traveling and after you return. Consult with your physician or travel service about the current situation in the places you are visiting. 

Prevent illness while traveling 

Plan your immunizations, exams and medications several months before your trip. If you go to a country that has cases of yellow fever, you will have to go a licensed center for dispensing this vaccine. Some pharmacies will order other immunizations for your doctor to dispense. You can also see an infectious disease specialist in your area. 

When traveling in a developing country, do not drink water from a tap or unsterilized source. You should only drink liquids from a sealed container. 

Avoid iced drinks unless the hotel or resort uses sterilized water. 

If you are traveling in a country that has malaria, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. You can spray clothing with sprays that contain DEET. Use DEET sprays on exposed skin. 

Make use of mosquito netting. 

Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner. 

Avoid eating food from street vendors.

Challenges ahead for travelers 

Because of changing weather patterns, more frequent large storms and problems with delays in airlines, you need to plan your trip carefully. 

Investigate what is going on with the weather in the months you want to travel. 

Be aware of hurricane patterns if you are going to the Caribbean islands. 

Also consider travel insurance in case of delays and cancellations.