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9: Infections in the returned traveller
David F M Looke1, Jennifer M B Robson
1Infection Management Services - Southern Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|August 15, 2002
Summary
Prompt diagnosis of travel-related illnesses like malaria and traveler's diarrhea is crucial for returned travelers. Some infections may present months or years after travel, requiring ongoing vigilance.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Public health
Background:
- Returned travelers often present with specific syndromes such as fever, respiratory issues, diarrhea, or skin infections.
- Screening for asymptomatic infections is also a common reason for consultation.
- Travel medicine addresses health risks associated with international travel.
Observation:
- Fever in returned travelers necessitates urgent evaluation, particularly for malaria, which may require multiple blood films for diagnosis.
- Diarrhea is the most frequent travel-related health problem, primarily bacterial, with persistent cases less commonly infectious but generally having a good prognosis.
- Animal bites in travelers warrant assessment for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.
Findings:
- Most travel-related infections manifest within six months of return.
- Chronic infections like strongyloidiasis and schistosomiasis can emerge months or even years post-travel.
- Timely diagnosis and management are key to preventing severe outcomes and ensuring traveler well-being.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers must maintain a high index of suspicion for travel-related diseases in returning individuals.
- Awareness of delayed presentations of chronic infections is vital for long-term health monitoring.
- Effective travel health strategies include pre-travel advice and post-travel care to mitigate risks.