Asia is a vast and varied land. Ancient religious temples and natural wonders snuggle up to beautiful modern cities rich in architectural oddities and wonders. A trip to Asia can give you a glimpse into a world so different from your own that it is staggering to see, yet so similar you will feel comfortable. The continent of Asia stretches from the Pacific Ocean to Eastern Europe and borders Russia, and the Middle East as well. Being a cross roads into so many different geographical locations and being so varied in its’ geography gives Asia unique disease epidemics.
In Asia, exotic jungles, white sand beaches, rugged mountains, fertile plains, grasslands and uniquely derived irrigated farmlands that are like nothing you’ve ever seen anywhere else in the world. In each region of Asia, there are similar health concerns, but also diseases that are unique to specific regions of Asia. There are certain measures which you can take in order to defend yourself against the onslaught of foreign viruses for which you have no natural immunity.
In Asia, the Centers for Disease Control warns against the presence of certain communicable diseases of which carry a high likelihood of fatality. Some of these diseases are common to American children, and can even be considered childhood disease. The measles is one childhood disease that has been all but eradicated in the United States, but causes endemic outbreaks in Asia. The measles cause serious fevers, lethargy, dehydration, distinctive white and blue lesions in the mouth, and other more severe symptoms like pneumonia and brain swelling that could preclude a fatal infection. There is an elevated risk of death from the measles. If you are due for initial vaccinations or your booster shots, get them before leaving US soil.
According to the CDC, polio outbreaks have affected many foreign countries, some of which lie in Asia. Polio is a virus that can cause paralysis other lifelong defects, or may even be fatal. Polio’s mortality rate is high, making it a major concern of Global Health Associations, such as the Red Cross and Red Crescent. Do not leave the United States until you have been inoculated for polio.
Dengue, or Dengue fever, is an infection that can be spread through saliva, body fluids, or mosquito bites. Dengue was once a primate virus, but has managed to mutate into a form that can infect humans. The disease typically affects tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world. The symptoms of Dengue include a high fever, coughing hard enough to break bones, hemorrhaging of blood, etc. and death result in severe Dengue infections. Check with Dr. Gafanovich about preventative courses of medication, immunizations, and hygienic measures you can take in order to prevent catching the Dengue virus.
While in Southeast Asia, there is a risk of contracting Enterovirus or Sarcocystosis. Sarcocystosis causes several muscle pains, loss of body fluids, and fever that can be extremely dangerous if not treated properly. Enteroviruses are viruses which are closely related to Polio. These viruses can be spread a number of ways. Hand, foot, and mouth disease has also been reported in Southeast Asia. Be sure to always use proper hygiene, drink clean water and take iodine tablets with you, and more.
Vaccinations for Asia are Available in Travel Clinic NYC
Read about CDC-suggested vaccinations when travelling to China, India, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Thailand
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Traveling outside of USA and concerned about your health? Travel vaccinations are recommended for many destinations. Find out about the requirements and talk to a physician.
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Dr. Gafanovich can give you a comprehensive disease consultation during your travel vaccine appointment. To be placed on the schedule, contact us today. Be sure to make your appointment at least six weeks before your departure date if at all possible!