Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Dengue Fever (Break-Bone Fever)
Dengue fever is spread through the bite of the mosquito. It causes a feverish illness with
headache and muscle pains similar to those experienced with a bad, prolonged attack of
influenza. There might be a rash. Self-treatment: paracetamol and rest.
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is spread through close respiratory contact. It usually causes a temperature and
a severe sore throat. Sometimes a membrane forms across the throat resulting in the need
for a tracheostomy to prevent suffocation. Vaccination is recommended for those likely to
be in close contact with the local population in infected areas. More important for long
stays than for short-term trips.
Filariasis
Tiny worms migrating in the lymphatic system cause filariasis. The bite from an infected
mosquito spreads the infection. Symptoms include localised itching and swelling of the
legs and/or genitalia. Treatment is available.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food (particularly shellfish) and water. It
causes jaundice and, although it is rarely fatal, it can cause prolonged lethargy and
delayed recovery. If you've had hepatitis A, you shouldn't drink alcohol for up to six
months afterwards, but once you've recovered, there won't be any long-term problems.
The first symptoms include dark urine and a yellow colour to the whites of the eyes. So-
metimes a fever and abdominal pain might be present. Hepatitis A vaccine (Avaxim,
VAQTA, Havrix) is given as an injection: a single dose will give protection for up to a
year, and a booster after a year gives protection for 10 years. Hepatitis A and typhoid vac-
cines can also be given as a single dose vaccine, Hepatyrix or ViATIM.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is spread through infected blood, contaminated needles and sexual intercourse.
It can also be spread from an infected mother to the baby during childbirth. It affects the
liver, causing jaundice and occasionally liver failure. Most people recover completely, but
some people might be chronic carriers of the virus, which could lead eventually to cir-
rhosis or liver cancer. Those visiting high-risk areas for long periods or those with in-
creased social or occupational risk should be immunised. Many countries now routinely
