• Malaria can be prevented by using mosquito repellents, getting vaccinated, and taking prescribed medication.
• Dengue fever is a viral infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes. Prevention includes wearing long sleeves and pants and using insect repellent.
• Traveler’s diarrhea can be avoided by avoiding uncooked foods and drinking bottled water.
• Periodontitis can be prevented by regularly replacing missing teeth before traveling and brushing and flossing.
• Zika virus is a viral infection transmitted through infected mosquito bites.
No one wants to get sick on vacation, but unfortunately, it’s a reality that many travelers face. Whether you’re traveling to a different country or just exploring a new destination in your own country, a variety of diseases can affect your vacation. Some diseases are preventable with the right precautions, while others may require medical treatment. Here are some of the most common diseases that can affect your vacation and what you can do to reduce your risk of getting sick.
Malaria
Malaria is a severe disease transmitted through infected mosquito bites. It is common in many tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and South America. Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, and body aches, which can be severe in some cases. Here are some ways you can avoid and treat this condition if you ever get it:
Mosquito Repellents
The prime carriers of malaria are mosquitoes, so it’s important to use mosquito repellents when you travel. Look for products with DEET or picaridin as the active ingredient, and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants if possible.
Vaccines
Some countries require travelers to get certain vaccines before entering the country, including a vaccine for malaria. Check with your doctor or a travel clinic before you leave home to ensure you’re up-to-date on all recommended vaccines.
Malaria Medication
If you’ll be traveling to an area where malaria is present, your doctor may prescribe medication that can prevent or reduce the severity of the disease. Take the medication as directed and finish the entire course, even if you don’t feel symptoms.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a viral infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, much like Malaria. Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, headache, joint pain, and rash. The best way to avoid dengue fever is to protect yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in areas.
Traveler’s Diarrhea
Traveler’s diarrhea is a common ailment that affects many travelers each year. It is caused by consuming contaminated food or water and can cause symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Here are some ways to avoid this disease on your travel.
Avoid Uncooked Foods
One of the most effective ways to prevent traveler’s diarrhea is to avoid eating uncooked foods or food from street vendors. Stick to cooked dishes that are served hot, and make sure they’re cooked all the way through.
Drink Bottled Water
Tap water can contain bacteria and other contaminants, so it’s best to stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. If you must drink tap water, ensure it’s been boiled or filtered first.
Periodontitis
One of the most common oral diseases is periodontitis; the worst part is that it can happen anytime. This means that if you’re on vacation, it can affect your experience. Periodontitis is caused by an infection of the gums and teeth, resulting in pain and swelling. To reduce your risk of periodontitis while traveling:
Replace Any Missing Tooth Before Traveling
The gaps between your teeth can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so if you have any missing teeth before your trip, it’s best to replace them with a high-quality dental implant. The implant can help prevent infection and avoid unpleasant surprises during your vacation.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Make sure to brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily, especially before bed. This will help to keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of periodontitis.
Zika Virus
The Zika virus is a viral infection primarily transmitted through infected mosquito bites. It is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Symptoms of the Zika virus include fever, conjunctivitis, and more. To reduce your risk of Zika virus, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and avoid mosquito bites.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is most common in developing countries with poor sanitation. Symptoms of hepatitis A include nausea, fatigue, and jaundice. To reduce your risk of hepatitis A, wash your hands frequently, avoid raw or undercooked foods, and get vaccinated before traveling.
Traveling while sick is never fun, but these tips can help you reduce your risk of getting sick on vacation and enjoy a safe and healthy trip. Before traveling, check in with your doctor so they can give you the necessary advice and medication. And don’t forget to have fun!
