Be Prepared For Your Journey

What is Cholera?

Cholera is a type of bacterial infection that affects the intestines, causing severe diarrhoea and vomiting. It is usually spread through consuming contaminated food or water.

What are the symptoms of Cholera?

The main symptoms of Cholera include profuse diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, tummy pain, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine and pale stools, and itchy skin.

How do you catch Cholera?

Cholera is usually spread by consuming food or water that is contaminated with the Cholera bacteria. This is more common in underdeveloped countries with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water and sewage disposal.

How can I prevent Cholera?

The risk of catching Cholera can be lowered by practicing good personal hygiene and avoiding consuming raw or undercooked seafood. It is also recommended to only drink bottled water while travelling to areas where Cholera is prevalent.

What are my vaccination options for Cholera?

There is one vaccine available to protect against Cholera, which is administered orally in the form of a liquid. The vaccine is given in two doses, one to six weeks apart, and is recommended for anyone above the age of two who is travelling to areas where Cholera is prevalent.

What destinations are at a higher risk for Cholera?

Cholera is found throughout the world but is most common in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water, such as parts of Africa, India, and South East Asia. Epidemics of the disease tend to occur in crowded areas with poor hygiene facilities, such as slums and refugee camps, and during times of flooding and rainy seasons.

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue Fever, also known as break-bone fever, is a mosquito-borne viral illness prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. The disease is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Affecting nearly half of the global population, dengue sees an estimated 100–400 million infections annually. While often asymptomatic or mild, dengue can escalate to severe and potentially fatal forms.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue symptoms, appearing 4–10 days post-infection and lasting 2–7 days, may include:

• High fever (up to 40°C/104°F)
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Swollen glands
• Skin rash

Individuals reinfected with dengue are at a heightened risk of severe symptoms, which may emerge after the fever subsides:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Continuous vomiting
• Rapid breathing
• Bleeding gums or nose
• Extreme fatigue and restlessness
• Blood in vomit or stools
• Excessive thirst
• Pale, cold skin
• Weakness

Immediate medical attention is crucial for severe symptoms. Post-recovery, patients often experience prolonged fatigue.

Preventing and Controlling Dengue Fever

Key preventive measures against dengue include:

• Wearing clothes covering most of the body
• Using mosquito nets during daytime sleep, ideally treated with insect repellent
• Installing window screens
• Applying mosquito repellents
• Utilizing mosquito coils and vaporizers

If infected:

• Rest adequately
• Hydrate frequently
• Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) for pain management
• Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin
• Seek immediate medical attention for severe symptoms

Dengue Fever Vaccination

As of January 2023, the UK has licensed Qdenga®, a vaccine for dengue prevention in individuals aged 4 years and above. The vaccination schedule involves two doses administered at 0 and 3 months.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a virus that can cause inflammation and damage to the liver. Although most cases are not life-threatening, 2% of adult cases can result in fatal liver failure

What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A?

The symptoms of Hepatitis A can vary from person to person, but they generally include fatigue, muscle and joint pain, fever, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, upper-right abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine and pale stools, and itchy skin.

How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?

Hepatitis A is usually spread through contaminated food or water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation or hygiene practices. It can also be transmitted from person to person, especially when people with poor personal hygiene handle or prepare food.

How Can You Prevent Hepatitis A?

Preventing Hepatitis A is essential when travelling to at-risk destinations. It’s best to stick to bottled water and avoid drinking tap water or using it to brush your teeth. When eating out, it’s worth researching restaurants or takeaways in advance to ensure that they adhere to good hygiene practices. Above all, vaccination is the most effective method of preventing Hepatitis A infection.

Hepatitis A Vaccination: What You Need to Know

The Hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself against the virus. It is recommended for anyone travelling to a country with a risk of Hepatitis A. The vaccine consists of a single dose, ideally administered at least two weeks before travel. However, even if you only have a day before your trip, getting vaccinated is still an effective way to protect yourself. After the initial dose, a booster shot is recommended within 6-12 months to provide protection for up to 25 years. The vaccine is available for anyone above the age of one.

What destinations are at-risk for Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is found all over the world, but some countries have higher incidences than others. In particular, countries in South America, Africa, and Asia are at higher risk due to local sanitation and hygiene practices. It’s important to check the Hepatitis A risk level for your destination and take the necessary precautions to stay healthy and safe during your travels.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a highly infectious virus that attacks the liver and can lead to life-threatening complications. Chronic infection with this virus can cause long-term liver disease and even liver cancer. Hepatitis B spreads through blood and body fluids, affecting individuals across the globe. In fact, approximately 350 million people are carriers of the virus worldwide. While it’s true that unprotected sexual contact with an infected person can lead to transmission, the virus can also spread through other means.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?

The main symptoms of Hepatitis B include a rash, itching all over the body, a high temperature, a headache, joint pain, feeling and being sick, diarrhoea, tummy pain, and yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice). Individuals with Hepatitis B may also experience dark urine and pale, grey-coloured poo.

How do you catch Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B spreads when an individual comes into contact with blood or body fluids from an infected person. The virus can spread through unprotected sex, tattoos, body piercings, acupuncture, contact sports, or sharing needles with drug users. Sharing toothbrushes or razors with someone who has the virus can also lead to transmission. Travellers are particularly at risk of Hepatitis B if they require medical treatment in a country with a high incidence of the virus and a healthcare system with limited resources. In such cases, injections might be re-used or blood transfusions may not be screened for Hepatitis B.

How can I prevent Hepatitis B?

The Hepatitis B vaccine is the best way to prevent Hepatitis B. However, other steps can be taken to lower the risk of infection. For instance, using a condom during sexual intercourse can reduce the chances of catching the virus. It’s also crucial to avoid anything that involves piercing the skin unless you are confident that the equipment has been sterilised properly.

What are my vaccination options for Hepatitis B?

The Hepatitis B vaccine requires three doses, with the first dose administered at least four weeks before travelling in order to complete the full course on time. An accelerated course is available for individuals travelling in less than four weeks. A fourth dose may be recommended as a booster, providing lifelong protection. The vaccine is available for anyone above the age of one.

What destinations are at a higher risk for Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is prevalent worldwide, but it’s particularly common in Sub-Saharan Africa, East and Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, parts of South America, southern parts of eastern and central Europe, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. Therefore, travellers visiting these regions should consider getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B to avoid infection.

What is Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese Encephalitis is a rare but deadly virus that causes inflammation of the brain. This virus is mainly found in Asia and is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. The disease can cause serious symptoms that can lead to death, and even in those who survive, permanent brain damage is a possibility.

What are the symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis?

The symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis include a high temperature, seizures, a stiff neck, confusion, the inability to speak, uncontrollable shaking of body parts, muscle weakness or paralysis. Those who develop more serious symptoms have a fatality rate of 30%, and up to one in three people who develop these more serious symptoms will die as a result of the infection.

How do you catch Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese Encephalitis is transmitted through mosquito bites, mainly during the night. The mosquitoes bite an infected pig or bird before transmitting the disease to humans. This disease mainly occurs in rural agricultural areas.

How can I prevent Japanese Encephalitis?

Protect yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing and using an effective insect repellent. Stick to long-sleeved shirts and pants during peak hours. A vaccine is also available to help prevent the virus from infecting you. Vaccination should be considered by those intending to spend a significant length of time in rural areas.

What are my vaccination options for Japanese Encephalitis?

A two-dose vaccine course is available. Considering the 2nd dose is administered 28 days after the 1st dose, you should start the course 4-6 weeks before your planned travel date. An accelerated schedule is also available for last-minute travellers! Booster doses should be considered 12-24 months after the first course, especially if you are planning to travel to destinations with a risk for Japanese Encephalitis. The vaccine is available for anyone above the age of one.

What destinations are at a higher risk for Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese Encephalitis is found throughout Asia and beyond, with most cases occurring in China, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Nepal, India, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Despite its name, Japanese Encephalitis is now relatively rare in Japan as a result of mass immunisation programmes.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a rare but extremely serious infection of the brain and nervous system. It is caused by a virus that can be transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most commonly a dog. Once symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal. However, treatment before symptoms appear can be highly effective.

What are the symptoms of Rabies?

Symptoms of rabies typically start to appear between 3 to 12 weeks after being infected, but they can appear sooner or much later than this. The main symptoms include a high temperature, headache, feelings of anxiety or general discomfort, discomfort at the site of the bite (in some cases), confusion or aggressive behaviour, seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), producing lots of saliva or frothing at the mouth, difficulty swallowing and breathing, and eventually, paralysis.

How do you catch Rabies?

Rabies is usually transmitted through the bites of infected animals, but licks and scratches from infected animals to the eyes, nose or mouth can also cause infection. Dogs are the most common cause of rabies in humans, but other animals such as bats, foxes, raccoons, and skunks can also be carriers of the virus.

How can I prevent Rabies?

The best way to prevent rabies is to avoid contact with animals during your travels, especially in areas known to have a higher risk of rabies. Some infected animals may behave strangely, but sometimes there may be no obvious signs that they’re infected. It is important to avoid touching any dead animals and avoid feeding stray animals. A pre-exposure course of three vaccines is available for travellers.

What are my vaccination options for Rabies?

A pre-exposure course of three vaccines is available for travellers. The vaccine is given as three doses over 21 or 28 days, and an accelerated course of three doses over 7 days, followed by a fourth dose at 12 months is also available for those who need it. Ideally, the final dose should be administered 7-14 days before your trip, but even a day before your trip is acceptable. The duration of protection is approximately 10 years, but if you are working with animals or are otherwise at a higher risk, more frequent booster doses may be recommended. The vaccine is available for anyone above the age of one.

What destinations are at a higher risk for Rabies?

Rabies is endemic in 150 countries, and some holiday hotspots that are considered high risk for rabies include parts of Asia, Africa, South America, and the Far East. India accounts for the majority of human deaths by rabies worldwide. When travelling to these areas, it is important to take precautions to avoid contact with potentially infected animals and to seek medical attention immediately if you are bitten or scratched.

What is Tetanus?

Tetanus is a rare but serious condition caused by bacteria that enter a wound. While it can be fatal even with medical treatment, it’s now rare in developed countries like the UK, thanks to vaccination programmes. However, it can still be found worldwide.

What are the symptoms of Tetanus?

Symptoms usually develop 4 to 21 days after infection, with an average onset of 10 days. The main symptoms include stiffness in the jaw muscles (also known as “lockjaw”), which can make it difficult to open your mouth, painful muscle spasms that can make it hard to breathe and swallow, a high temperature, sweating, a rapid heartbeat, and feeling sick.

How do you catch Tetanus?

Tetanus bacteria can survive for a long time outside the body and are commonly found in soil, as well as the manure of animals like horses and cows. It can enter the body through a wound or break in the skin, and rarely through injected drugs. It cannot be spread from person to person.

How can I prevent Tetanus?

Vaccination and good wound care are crucial in preventing Tetanus infection. Clean all wounds with soap and water. Travellers who have had the primary UK childhood schedule can receive a booster vaccine. A course of the vaccine, which combines diphtheria with Tetanus and polio, is routinely offered in the UK from the age of 8 weeks. Depending on where you’re travelling and when you last had the combined vaccine, you may require a booster dose before you travel.

What are my vaccination options for Tetanus?

The Tetanus vaccine requires only one dose. Ideally, it’s best to have the vaccine course two weeks before your trip, but even a day before your travel can provide some protection. The vaccine provides protection for 10 years, after which a booster dose is recommended. The vaccine is available for anyone 6 years and above.

What destinations are at a higher risk for Tetanus?

Tetanus can occur anywhere in the world, and people of all ages are at risk.

What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through tick bites. Ticks carrying the virus are found in parts of Europe, Asia, and some areas of the UK. TBE often presents as a two-phased illness.

What are the symptoms of Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

The main symptoms of TBE are divided into two phases:

The First Phase:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscular ache
• Nausea

The Second Phase:

• Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord
• Inflammation of the brain

How is Tick-Borne Encephalitis Transmitted?

TBE is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. It can also spread, although rarely, via unpasteurized milk from infected cows, sheep, and goats. Ticks thrive in forests and grassy areas, so individuals engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and camping are at a higher risk of being bitten.

How Can You Prevent Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

Preventing TBE involves vaccination and bite avoidance. Protect yourself from tick bites by wearing long sleeves, long trousers tucked into socks, sturdy footwear, and using an insect repellant. When travelling or staying in tick prevalent areas, it is essential to inspect your skin every day and remove any ticks with tweezers.

What are my vaccination options for Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is recommended for those visiting countries with a high incidence of the infection, particularly if participating in outdoor activities. The vaccination details are as follows:

• Number of doses: 2 doses, administered over a period of 1-3 months
• Recommended time frame: Start the first dose no later than 6 weeks before travel to receive the second dose 2 weeks prior to departure
• Booster doses: A single booster dose is advised 5-12 months later for those at continued risk
• Age restrictions: The vaccine is suitable for individuals aged 2 years and above

What destinations are at a higher risk for Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

Higher-risk destinations for Tick-Borne Encephalitis include Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, Russia, South Korea, and parts of China and Japan.

What is Typhoid?

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that spreads throughout the body, causing a range of symptoms that can be serious and even life-threatening. The disease is caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi, which is found in contaminated food and water.

What are the symptoms of Typhoid?

The symptoms of typhoid fever can vary from mild to severe, and typically appear 1-3 weeks after exposure to the bacteria. Common symptoms include a high fever, headache, general aches and pain, cough, and constipation. In some cases, a rash of flat, rose-coloured spots may appear.

How do you catch Typhoid?

Typhoid is most commonly spread through consuming food or water that has been contaminated with the faeces or urine of an infected person. This can occur in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, where sewage can contaminate water supplies and food may be handled by infected individuals.

How can I prevent Typhoid?

To prevent typhoid fever, it’s important to avoid consuming contaminated food and water. This means sticking to bottled water, avoiding street food, and washing hands regularly with soap and water, especially before preparing or eating food. Vaccination is also recommended for those travelling to parts of the world where typhoid fever is prevalent.

What are my vaccination options for Typhoid?

A single dose of the typhoid vaccine is typically recommended for anyone travelling to an area where the disease is widespread. The vaccine is safe and effective and is available for anyone aged 2 years and above.

What destinations are at a higher risk for Typhoid?

Typhoid fever is most common in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water, which can be found in many parts of the world. Countries in South Asia, such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, are known to have a high incidence of the disease. If you’re travelling to these areas, it’s important to take precautions to avoid exposure to the bacteria.

What is Yellow Fever?

Yellow Fever is a severe viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, predominantly found in certain regions of Africa, South America, Central America, and Trinidad in the Caribbean. The disease can progress into a life-threatening illness with a high fatality rate. To control its spread, strict international regulations have been implemented, including mandatory proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry into specific countries.

What are the symptoms of yellow fever?

Initial symptoms of Yellow Fever include:

• High temperature
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle pain and backache
• Sensitivity to light
• Loss of appetite and general malaise

Approximately 1 in 4 individuals may develop more severe symptoms, such as:

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Bleeding from the mouth, nose, eyes, or ears
• Vomiting blood or finding blood in stools

How is Yellow Fever transmitted?

Yellow Fever is primarily transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes, which tend to bite during daytime hours. The disease cannot be spread through direct contact with an infected person. Mosquitoes are also known to transmit other serious illnesses like Malaria and Dengue.

How can you prevent yellow fever?

The main way you can protect yourself would be to protect yourself from mosquito bites. This can be achieved by using insect repellants and wearing loose-fitting clothing. Covering exposed skin with long-sleeve shirts and full length pants during peak mosquito times will also help to prevent bites. There is also a one-time vaccination for yellow fever.

What are my vaccination options for yellow fever?

Vaccination is advised for those travelling to regions where Yellow Fever is prevalent. In certain destinations, obtaining the Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory. Be sure to verify with your travel provider or health professional. The vaccination specifics are as follows:

• Number of doses: One dose
• Recommended time frame: 2-3 weeks prior to travel
• Booster doses: Not required
• Age restrictions: Available for individuals aged 1 year and above

What destinations are at a higher risk for Yellow Fever?

Areas with a higher risk of Yellow Fever include specific regions in Africa, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.