Stating that the world is much smaller today than before and that travels for reasons such as business, tourism and education have become easier, Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Cengiz Uzun, Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Specialist, said, “However, this speed and convenience brings health risks with it” and explained the points to be considered.
Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Specialist from BHT CLINIC Istanbul Tema Hospital Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Cengiz Uzun, Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Specialist at BHT CLINIC Istanbul Tema Hospital said, “Travel health covers all health and disease conditions associated with travel. In addition to infectious diseases such as travelers' diarrhea, yellow fever and malaria, problems that may occur during or after travel, such as altitude sickness, trauma, deep vein thrombosis, sunburn and jet-lag, are also included in the scope of travel health.”
Protective vaccines and medicines are critical steps to protect health
Underlining how major epidemics and infectious diseases have spread rapidly through international travel in the past years, Dr. Uzun said, “It is vital to take the necessary medical precautions when traveling to areas where infections such as yellow fever, dengue fever, Zika virus and malaria are endemic. Before traveling, especially to countries where these diseases are common, getting information about preventive vaccines and medicines is a critical step to protect our health.”
“Get information about endemic diseases and possible outbreaks”
“Travel health clinics and centers in Europe, Australia and North America have been providing support to travelers for many years. If possible, contacting such a center four weeks before the trip provides information about endemic diseases or possible new outbreaks in the destination country. Getting the necessary vaccinations or taking preventive measures with medicines will help you have a healthy trip. At these centers, you can also get support on issues such as health institutions in the destination region, ways to cope with health problems, and a small health bag that you should take with you on your trip. They can also provide information on in which cases you should consult a health institution after returning from the trip.”
Visit your physician before traveling
Stating that special health groups such as cancer patients, organ transplant patients, people with chronic diseases, the elderly and infants should be evaluated more carefully and appropriate precautions should be taken before traveling, Dr. Uzun concluded his speech by saying, “A short visit to a physician before traveling will make a significant contribution to a peaceful and healthy travel.”
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