Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is spread through close respiratory contact. It causes a high temperature and
severe sore throat and, sometimes, a closure of the throat requiring a tracheostomy to pre-
vent suffocation. Vaccination is recommended for those likely to be in close contact with
the local population in infected areas. The vaccine is given as an injection alone, or with
tetanus, and lasts 10 years.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food (particularly shellfish) and water. It
causes jaundice and, although it is rarely fatal, can cause prolonged lethargy and delayed
recovery. Symptoms include dark urine, a yellow colour to the whites of the eyes, fever
and abdominal pain. Hepatitis A vaccine (Avaxim, VAQTA, Havrix) is given as an injec-
tion: a single dose will give protection for up to a year while a booster 12 months later
will provide a subsequent 10 years of protection.
Hepatitis B
Infected blood, contaminated needles and sexual intercourse can all transmit hepatitis B. It
can cause jaundice, and affects the liver, occasionally causing liver failure. All travellers
should make this a routine vaccination. (Many countries now give hepatitis B vaccination
as part of routine childhood vaccination.) The vaccine is given singly, or at the same time
as the hepatitis A vaccine (hepatyrix). A course will give protection for at least five years.
It can be given over four weeks, or six months.
HIV
HIV remains mercifully rare in Iran but the growing use of prostitutes and, more problem-
atically, the large number of intravenous drug users, means the HIV rate is rising. For
some longer-term visa types Iran requires a negative HIV test.
Malaria
There is little malaria in Iran. Still, it's worth knowing that malaria almost always starts
with shivering, fever and sweating. Muscle pains, headache and vomiting are common.
Symptoms may occur anywhere from a few days to three weeks after the infected mos-
quito bite. The illness can start while you are taking preventative tablets if they are not
fully effective, and may also occur after you have finished taking your tablets.
