Zika virus is rapidly spreading throughout the Americas, and yesterday the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The WHO alert places Zika in the same category of concern as Ebola. Margaret Chan, the Director General of the WHO, addressed an emergency committee and described the epidemic as “spreading explosively”. […]
25
Jan
Jan
On January 15, 2016 the CDC issued a travel advisory cautioning woman who are pregnant (or planning to become pregnant) to avoid travel to 14 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean currently experiencing an outbreak of Zika virus. The threat of Zika is spreading so quickly, that only a week after it issued its […]
19
Jan
Jan
Another mosquito-transmitted disease was all over the news this week. The CDC has issued a travel alert cautioning people about traveling to 14 countries and territories in Latin America and the Caribbean where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. The affected countries include Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, […]
12
Jan
Jan
Nothing demonstrates the importance of tropical medicine more than having a loved one, patient, or yourself, fall ill while on vacation. I recently received a frantic email from one of my patients vacationing in Hawaii. During her time on the island, she fell violently ill and was later diagnosed with Dengue (pronounced Deng-Gee) Fever. Initially, […]
01
Nov
Nov
The CDC recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months receive a seasonal influenza vaccine (known as the flu shot). It is also likely your doctor has suggested that you get one. My job is to educate my patients about travel vaccines and I’m always amazed that so many of them are still resistant […]
29
Sep
Sep
Recognizing Flu Symptoms Fever, chills, and muscle aches, oh my! If you’re experiencing these symptoms, as well as a headache or a nonproductive cough, the flu bug may have bitten you! Continue reading for ways to avoid the flu while traveling this year. Understanding Influenza First, it’s important to note that while you may feel […]
15
Sep
Sep
Read our blog to learn about the travel health risks in Mexico; the most visited Latin American country and a top U.S. tourist destination.
14
Aug
Aug
In our last blog, we looked at strategies to prevent motion sickness. Fortunately, there are also various medications available which can help to prevent as well as treat symptoms. (Note: brand names listed are those that are available in the U.S.) Over the Counter (OTC) Medications for Motion Sickness Some OTC antihistamines are also commonly […]
09
Aug
Aug
If you travel a lot, you’ve no doubt felt the ill effects of air turbulence, while in a small boat in rough waters or trying to read in the back seat of a car. Motion sickness refers to the body’s normal physiological response to unusual perception of motion, whether real or apparent. Symptoms include dizziness, […]
30
Jul
Jul
Preparation for a Healthy Cruise If you read our last blog, your hands are washed and you’re all prepared to avoid Norovirus. Now here are some more tips for a healthy cruise on your next high seas adventure. Vaccinations Remember that when you book your cruise, you also sign a cruise ticket contract ensuring that […]