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Nobel Laureate Dr. Joshua Lederberg once said, "The microbe that felled one child in a distant continent yesterday can reach yours today and seed a global pandemic tomorrow." In the 1990s, Hollywood movies such as "Outbreak" and books such as Richard Preston's "The Hot Zone" played on fears of the out-of-control virus that can be carried across international boundaries and wipe out entire populations.
These fears are fueled by the unprecedented late 20th century increase in worldwide travel - a trend that is predicted to continue into the next century.
Well, such hysteria isn't warranted, but sensible concern is. If you've decided to fulfill your dream of vacationing, working, studying or volunteering overseas, especially in a developing country, don't cancel your trip just yet. Instead, take some precautions now to protect your health both during and after your travels. Here are a number of reasons why it's so important to plan ahead.
Required proof of immunization
Many countries require proof that you've had certain immunizations, which sometimes must be given weeks or even months before your departure.
Possible exposure to infectious diseases
Even when immunizations aren't required, you may want to have them (or preventive drug treatments called chemoprophylaxis) if there's a high risk for exposure to certain infectious diseases, most commonly traveler's diarrhea, malaria or hepatitis A. Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Web site for disease risks in various countries at www.cdc.gov.
Increased risk of foodborne and water-borne illness
Traveler's diarrhea is one of the most common risks of visiting a non-industrialized country. Now is the time to learn how to avoid this illness. Ask your doctor about getting some antibiotics to take along with you if you get sick.
Difficulty receiving emergency medical care
If you need emergency care overseas (and one in 30 travelers will), you may have problems because of cultural or language barriers. Or you may have trouble judging whether a doctor is well qualified. Further, overseas hospitals won't have access to your medical records (carrying a copy or a summary of your medical records from your doctor may help). Many overseas hospitals aren't likely to accept your insurance and many require a substantial cash deposit up front.
Pre-existing conditions and special health needs
If you have a health condition such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes that requires medication or other equipment, you'll need to factor this into your preparations. If you're a senior citizen, pregnant, HIV-positive or you are traveling with young children, you'll need to be extra careful to protect yourself from illness. Certain vaccinations may not be advisable for you.
Also, note that some countries do not allow HIV-positive travelers to enter. These countries will usually only screen travelers planning an extended stay, such as for work or study. If you are planning on visiting a country for an extended period of time, check their policies and requirements. You can find this information from the consular officials of the individual nations. You can also check the US Department of State Web site at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1230.html.
Of course, your preparations will depend on your situation and travel destination. That's why it's essential to do your own research on the area. A good place to start is the CDC site on Traveler's Health. You also may want to talk with a doctor who specializes in travel medicine before you go.
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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