What is Dengue fever?
Dengue fever, otherwise known breakbone fever, is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. In contrast to the malaria mosquito, this insect is also active during the day and in cities. Dengue fever does not usually present a serious health risk and the symptoms are fever, skin rash and headache. In rare cases, it can however be life-threatening. This only happens when the disease is contracted for the second, third or fourth time. There is no vaccination for Dengue fever, so it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites by taking measures to repel mosquitoes.
What is Hepatitis B?
As with hepatitis A, this is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. Infection occurs through blood contact or unprotected sexual activity. Around 400 million people are infected across the world. Many sufferers develop cancer of the liver in due course. Vaccination based on a schedule offers protection for ten years. Travellers are increasingly advised to have the hepatitis B vaccination. There is also a combination vaccine against hepatitis A and B.
What is STD?
People who have unprotected sexual contact are at high risk of contracting venereal diseases. Besides gonorrhoea and chlamydia, which we see increasing cases of here, hepatitis B and HIV also pose a great threat in many distant destinations. Condoms offer protection. A vaccination is available against hepatitis B.
What is TBC?
Tuberculosis risk
What is Traveler's Diarrhea?
Avoid stomach and intestinal infections by being critical about what you eat and drink. No ice cubes and ensure that any bottles you drink from are opened in your presence. Be careful with salads and try to avoid eating anything from roadside stalls. Ensure that food is heated well before consumption. An oral rehydration solution (ORS) can be an effective treatment for diarrhoea.
