Directory A–Z - Florida - page 1140

Bring any medications you may need in their original containers, clearly labeled. A
signed, dated letter from your physician that describes all of your medical conditions and
medications (including generic names) is also a good idea.

Infectious Diseases
In addition to more-common ailments, there are several infectious diseases that are un-
known or uncommon outside North America. Most are acquired by mosquito or tick bites.
Giardiasis Also known as traveler's diarrhea. A parasitic infection of the small intestines,
typically contracted by drinking feces-contaminated fresh water. Never drink untreated
stream, lake or pond water. Easily treated with antibiotics.
HIV/AIDS HIV infection occurs in the US, as do all sexually transmitted diseases: inciden-
ces of syphilis are on the rise. Use condoms for all sexual encounters.
Lyme Disease Though more common in the US northeast than Florida, Lyme disease oc-
curs here. It is transmitted by infected deer ticks, and is signaled by a bull's-eye rash at the
bite and flulike symptoms. Treat promptly with antibiotics. Removing ticks within 36 hours
can avoid infection.
Rabies Though rare, the rabies virus can be contracted from the bite of any infected anim-
al; bats are most common, and their bites are not always obvious. If bitten by any animal,
consult with a doctor, since rabies is fatal if untreated.
West Nile Virus Extremely rare in Florida, West Nile Virus is transmitted by culex mosqui-
toes. Most infections are mild or asymptomatic, but serious symptoms and even death can
occur. There is no treatment for West Nile Virus. For the latest update on affected areas,
see the US Geological Survey disease maps ( http://diseasemaps.usgs.gov ) .

Useful Websites
Consult your government's travel health website before departure, if one is available. There
is a vast wealth of travel-health advice on the internet.
Two good sources:

MD Travel Health
( www.mdtravelhealth.com )
Provides complete, updated and free travel-health recommendations for every country.
MEDICAL

MEDICAL

World Health Organization
( www.who.int/ith )
The superb book International Travel and Health is available free online.