A raised temperature, or fever, is a common symptom that prompts returning travelers to see their doctor. Most feverish illnesses are minor and people recover quickly from a fever with rest and simple self-care.
Returning travelers with a fever, however, should see a doctor to rule out anything more serious, as travelers are sometimes exposed to unfamiliar disease-causing organisms. At your appointment, tell the medical professional about your trip. They will need to know where you went, what you did, and the dates. If an animal or insect bit you, you should mention that as well.
Information about fevers
A sign of disease, fever shows your body is battling an infection. A body temperature of 100F or higher is referred to as a fever. A thermometer can be used to measure your body temperature. Alternatively, you might place a hand on your back and chest to see if your skin is warmer than usual. Some persons who have a fever will shiver or feel chilly, or they may sweat, or flush red (although this is less noticeable on dark skin).
How to treat a fever while traveling
When you have a fever, it's considerate to limit your contact with others until you feel better as some feverish illnesses are contagious. You can aid your recovery from a fever by resting, drinking plenty, and using painkillers as necessary.
Note that you should get medical advice for a fever that occurs while traveling, or soon after your return. This is especially true if you also experience symptoms like abdominal pain, jaundice, rashes, and bloody diarrhea. A medical practitioner can advise on self-care and rule out serious illness.
For more information, we have an article about receiving medical treatment while traveling.
Which traveler's diseases result in fever?
The majority of fevers in travelers are brought on by respiratory illnesses (for example, a cold) or by a digestive upset.
However, fever is a symptom of:
- malaria
- typhoid
- dengue fever
- rickettsia
- hepatitis
- HIV
- tuberculosis
- hemorrhagic fevers
By seeking medical advice, you can rule out these dangerous illnesses or, if necessary, receive treatment.
Precautions to help you avoid fevers while traveling
With a solid travel health regimen, you may minimize your exposure to vectors of diseases and lower your risk of infection.
For instance, you can take antimalarial tablets or get vaccinated against hepatitis A. Insects are vectors for some dangerous diseases. The CDC cautions travelers to avoid tick bites as well as bites from other insects and mosquitoes.
Every trip has a different risk profile, so it can be challenging to determine what safety measures to take. You might be wondering if you should get travel shots or take malarial prophylaxis. And you might wonder how to avoid disease-carrying insects at your destination. You can get answers to these questions at a travel health consultation.
Where can I get a travel health appointment near me?
Six to eight weeks before your international vacation make an appointment with a nurse or pharmacist trained in travel health. They can assist you in determining the immunizations and antimalarial medications that are right for you. They will provide you with a schedule for receiving the various doses of travel vaccines.
Additionally, they may give you advice on any covid tests for your trip abroad. Our travel health clinics have a large number of travel health appointments. Booking an appointment for vacation health with Global Travel Clinics is quick and simple, so why not make your appointment right now!
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