The five most common infections among travellers and how to prevent them

For this reason, the Fight Infections Foundation explains the five most common infections among travellers and the basic measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection.

Travellers’ diarrhoea: the most common infection while travelling

Travellers’ diarrhoea is the most common infectious illness associated with international travel and exposure to poor hygiene conditions. It is mainly caused by the consumption of contaminated food or water and, although it is usually mild, it can lead to dehydration and disrupt travel plans.

To prevent it, travellers are advised to drink bottled water, avoid ice and avoid raw or undercooked foods.

Dengue: the mosquito-borne disease that most frequently affects travellers

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and is one of the most common illnesses among people returning from tropical and subtropical regions. It is currently present in more than 130 countries.

Symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and, in some cases, the disease may progress to severe forms. The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites by using repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing and sleeping under mosquito nets. In certain cases, vaccination may also be recommended, particularly for people who have previously had dengue or those at higher risk, such as individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. For this reason, it is advisable to consult an international travel health clinic before travelling in order to assess the most appropriate preventive measures.

Malaria: a medical emergency that should be considered in any traveller with fever

Malaria is one of the leading causes of fever in people returning from sub-Saharan Africa. It is a potentially serious disease that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Before travelling to destinations where malaria is present, it is important to consult an international travel health clinic to determine whether preventive medication is recommended.

Hepatitis A: a vaccine-preventable infection

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver and is mainly transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is one of the travel-related diseases that can be prevented very effectively through vaccination.

In addition, maintaining good hygiene practices during travel further reduces the risk of infection.

Typhoid fever: a threat linked to contaminated food and water

Typhoid fever remains a common disease in parts of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. It is transmitted through contaminated food or water and can cause persistent high fever. Although mortality is low when appropriate antibiotic treatment is provided, typhoid fever can become severe and potentially life-threatening if it is not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Depending on the destination, vaccination may be recommended, but following food and water safety advice is also essential.

“Many travel-related infections can be prevented with proper preparation before departure. Consulting an international travel health clinic, ensuring that recommended vaccinations are up to date, and following basic hygiene measures and mosquito protection advice can significantly reduce the risk of becoming ill while on holiday“, remind the international health specialists at the Foundation for the Fight Against Infections.