Travel Clinic
Welcome to our online travel clinic!
We are here to provide you with essential information and guidance to ensure a safe and healthy journey. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or embarking on your first international adventure, it’s crucial to be aware of potential health risks at your destination. Our clinic specialises in providing information on cholera, malaria, meningococcal meningitis, typhoid, and influenza, among the most common travel-related illnesses. Here’s a brief overview of each:
At our online travel clinic, we prioritise your health and safety. We provide up-to-date information on these diseases, their risk factors, preventive measures, and available vaccinations. We aim to equip you with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions and stay healthy during your travels. Prevention is critical, so consult our clinic before your trip for personalised advice based on your destination and individual health needs.
Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by ingesting contaminated food or water. It is characterised by severe watery diarrhoea and can lead to dehydration and potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated. Here's some additional information on:
What it is
Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholera, which produces a toxin that affects the small intestine's lining. It is primarily transmitted through the consumption of water or food contaminated with faecal matter containing the bacterium. Cholera outbreaks can occur in areas with inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene practices.
Countries at risk
Cholera is more common in regions with limited access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities. Areas at higher risk include parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Specific countries with a history of cholera outbreaks may consist of Bangladesh, India, Haiti, and various sub-Saharan African nations.
Travel precautions: When travelling to countries where cholera is endemic or during outbreaks, it's essential to take certain precautions:
- Safe drinking water: Drink only water boiled, filtered, or treated with chlorine or iodine tablets. Avoid consuming tap water, ice cubes, and beverages made with tap water, including brushing your teeth.
- Food hygiene: Stick to well-cooked hot foods and avoid raw or undercooked seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Peeling fruits yourself and avoiding street food or food from unreliable sources is also advisable.
- Hand hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, especially before eating or preparing food and after using the restroom. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Vaccination: Consult a healthcare professional regarding the availability and suitability of cholera vaccination. While the vaccine is not 100% protective, it can help reduce the severity of the disease.
Signs and symptoms
Cholera symptoms can range from mild to severe. They typically appear within a few days to a week after infection and may include:
- Profuse watery diarrhoea (resembling rice water)
- Vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Dry mucous membranes (mouth and throat)
- Excessive thirst
- Muscle cramps
- Low blood pressure
- Sunken eyes
- Loss of skin elasticity (tenting)
- Dehydration
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially while travelling in a cholera-endemic area, seek medical attention immediately. Cholera can be effectively treated with oral rehydration solutions and, in severe cases, intravenous fluid replacement and antibiotics.
Stay informed about cholera, following preventive measures, and seeking prompt medical care if necessary can help ensure a safe and healthy travel experience.
Malaria is a potentially life-threatening mosquito-borne disease caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Here's some additional information on malaria:
What it is
Malaria is characterised by recurring fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. The parasites multiply in the liver and then infect and destroy red blood cells, leading to cycles of symptoms and potential complications. There are several malaria parasites, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most dangerous and prevalent in many parts of the world.
Countries at risk
Malaria is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and parts of the Middle East. Specific countries at higher risk may include Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, India, Mozambique, and Myanmar.
Travel precautions: If you are travelling to a malaria-endemic area, it's crucial to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection:
- Antimalarial medication: Consult a healthcare professional well before your trip to determine the appropriate antimalarial medicines based on your destination, medical history, and individual factors. Taking antimalarials as prescribed can significantly reduce the risk of contracting malaria.
- Insect bite prevention: Protect yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and clothing. Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets, preferably ones that are permethrin-treated.
- Environmental modifications: Minimise mosquito breeding sites by avoiding stagnant water, ensuring proper drainage, and using window and door screens or air conditioning.
- Awareness and education: Educate yourself about the symptoms of malaria, the importance of early diagnosis, and the availability of healthcare facilities in your travel destination. Promptly seek medical attention if you develop flu-like symptoms, even after returning from your trip.
Signs and symptoms
Malaria symptoms typically appear within 7 to 30 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The signs and symptoms may include:
- Fever (often cyclical, with chills and sweating)
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Anaemia
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) in severe cases
- Convulsions or seizures (especially in children)
- Coma (in extreme cases)
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after travelling to a malaria-endemic area, seek medical attention promptly. Malaria can progress rapidly and lead to severe complications if left untreated.
Remember, malaria prevention involves a combination of antimalarial medications, insect bite prevention, and prompt medical care. Following these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of contracting malaria and enjoy a safer travel experience.
Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to severe illness and potentially fatal complications. Here's some additional information on meningococcal meningitis:
What it is
Meningococcal meningitis is a contagious disease primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets from infected individuals. It can also spread through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils or drinks with an infected person. Meningococcal meningitis can occur sporadically or in outbreaks, particularly in crowded settings such as college dormitories, military barracks, or pilgrimage sites.
Countries at risk
Meningococcal meningitis can occur worldwide. However, certain regions, known as the "meningitis belt," stretching across sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal to Ethiopia, have experienced higher incidence rates. Outbreaks can also occur in other parts of the world. Vaccination policies and recommendations may vary depending on the specific countries and regions.
Travel precautions: If you are travelling to an area with a known risk of meningococcal meningitis, consider the following precautions:
- Vaccination: Consult a healthcare professional to assess the need for meningococcal vaccination based on your travel destination, duration of stay, and activities. Different types of meningococcal vaccines are available, including conjugate and serogroup-specific vaccines. Vaccination can protect against several strains of the bacteria.
- Personal hygiene: Practice good personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Avoid close contact with individuals who are ill with respiratory infections, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
- Please be aware of symptoms: Familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis, as early recognition and prompt medical attention are crucial. Be vigilant if you develop symptoms or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with meningococcal.
Travel precautions: When travelling to countries where cholera is endemic or during outbreaks, it's essential to take certain precautions:
- Safe drinking water: Drink only water boiled, filtered, or treated with chlorine or iodine tablets. Avoid consuming tap water, ice cubes, and beverages made with tap water, including brushing your teeth.
- Food hygiene: Stick to well-cooked hot foods and avoid raw or undercooked seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Peeling fruits yourself and avoiding street food or food from unreliable sources is also advisable.
- Hand hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, especially before eating or preparing food and after using the restroom. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Vaccination: Consult a healthcare professional regarding the availability and suitability of cholera vaccination. While the vaccine is not 100% protective, it can help reduce the severity of the disease.
Signs and symptoms
Meningococcal meningitis can rapidly manifest and progress, leading to severe illness. The signs and symptoms may include:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck (neck stiffness)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- Altered mental status (confusion, irritability, drowsiness)
- Rash (petechial rash, purpura) that may develop later in the disease
- Seizures (in severe cases)
If you experience these symptoms, particularly in a high-risk area or after close contact with an infected person, seek immediate medical attention. Meningococcal meningitis is a medical emergency, and early treatment with appropriate antibiotics is crucial.
It's important to note that vaccination is the primary preventive measure against meningococcal meningitis. By staying informed about the risk factors, following recommended vaccination schedules, and being aware of the symptoms, you can better protect yourself and others from this severe infectious disease.
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. It is primarily contracted through food or water contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. Typhoid can lead to severe illness and, if left untreated, can be life-threatening. Here's some additional information on typhoid:
What it is
Typhoid fever is characterised by prolonged fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and systemic manifestations. The bacteria invade the intestines and spread to other body parts through the bloodstream. It can affect various organs and systems, leading to multiple symptoms.
Countries at risk
Typhoid fever is most prevalent in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean water. Regions with a higher risk include parts of South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Specific countries with a history of typhoid outbreaks may include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Indonesia.
Travel precautions: If you are travelling to a typhoid-endemic area, consider the following precautions:
- Vaccination: Consult a healthcare professional to determine the suitability and availability of typhoid vaccination options. Vaccination can significantly protect against typhoid fever and is recommended for travellers to endemic areas.
- Safe drinking water and food: Drink bottled water or water boiled or treated with chlorine or iodine tablets. Avoid consuming ice cubes and beverages made with tap water. Eat thoroughly cooked hot foods and avoid raw or undercooked foods, particularly seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Peel fruits yourself and avoid street food or food from unreliable sources.
- Hand hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before eating or preparing food and after using the restroom. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Personal hygiene: Maintain good personal hygiene and encourage regular handwashing among travel companions. Please don't contact anyone infected with typhoid or other contagious illnesses.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of typhoid fever can range from mild to severe and typically develop one to three weeks after exposure. Common symptoms may include:
- Prolonged fever (often gradually increasing over several days)
- Weakness and fatigue
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Rose-coloured spots on the chest and abdomen
- Enlarged spleen and liver
- Rash (in some cases)
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after travelling to a typhoid-endemic area, seek medical attention promptly. Typhoid fever can be diagnosed through blood tests and stool cultures. Antibiotics are commonly used for treatment.
Vaccination, safe food and water practices, and good personal hygiene are critical preventive measures against typhoid fever. These precautions can reduce the risk of contracting this infectious disease during your travels and promote a safer journey.
What it is
Countries at risk
- Annual flu vaccination: Get vaccinated against influenza before your trip. The flu vaccine is formulated each year to protect against the most prevalent strains of the virus. It is highly recommended for individuals at higher risk of severe complications, such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
- Respiratory hygiene: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets. You can use the used tissues properly and wash your hands afterwards.
- Hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or touching your face. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid close contact: Minimise close contact with individuals with flu-like symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, or fever. If possible, maintain a distance of about 3 feet or more from individuals displaying respiratory symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
- Fever (often high)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Body aches and muscle pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Chills
- Chest discomfort or congestion