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He Y, Zhan S, Su H, Deng Y. Unleashing the link between the relaxation of the COVID-19 control policy and residents' mental health in China: the mediating role of family tourism consumption. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1216980. [PMID: 37674676 PMCID: PMC10477710 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1216980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective COVID-19 has negatively influenced industrial development, family consumption, and residents' mental health. Unfortunately, it has not yet been studied whether this adverse situation can be alleviated after the relaxation of the COVID-19 control policy (RCC). Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effect of the RCC on the resident's mental health and the mediating effect of family tourism consumption. Methods By using the PSM and mediating effetc model to research the panel data of two periods (April 2021 and April 2023) for Shaanxi province, China. Results The RCC negatively inhibited the mental health severity of residents, and the mental health severity decreased by 0.602. In particular, the RCC showed the most substantial negative effect on residents' stress, followed by anxiety and depression. Meanwhile, it is found that the impact of the RCC on the mental health of residents is highly heterogeneous. The RCC indicates a linear significant effect on the mental health of residents under 60 years of age, while the results were found insignificant for residents above 60 years of age. Meanwhile, the RCC's improvement effect on urban residents' mental health is greater than that of rural residents. In addition, mechanism analysis showed that tourism consumption plays a mediating role in the influence of the RCC on the mental health of residents, and the mediating effect accounted for 24.58% of the total effect. Conclusion Based on the findings, the study proposes that government and policymakers should strengthen mental health intervention, improve access to mental health counseling, stimulate economic development, expand the employment of residents, and track the mutation of the novel coronavirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilun He
- School of Management, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an, China
- School of Public Administration, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Shaowen Zhan
- School of Public Administration, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Su
- School of Public Administration, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Yulong Deng
- School of Public Administration, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
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2
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Sørensen HT. Patients with Chronic Diseases Who Travel: Need for Global Access to Timely Health Care Data. Clin Epidemiol 2022; 14:513-519. [PMID: 35505690 PMCID: PMC9057227 DOI: 10.2147/clep.s360699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University, Aarhus N, DK-8200, Denmark
- Clinical Excellence Research Center, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Correspondence: Henrik Toft Sørensen, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Olof Palmes Allé 43-45, Aarhus N, DK-8200, Denmark, Email
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3
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Abdel-Haq N, Asmar BI. Fever in the Returned Pediatric Traveler. Glob Pediatr Health 2021; 8:2333794X211026188. [PMID: 34423077 PMCID: PMC8375340 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x211026188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Global mobility has been steadily increasing in recent years. The assessment of the febrile child returning from international travel is a diagnostic challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected international travel and made evaluation and management of the sick returned traveler more challenging. Children visiting friends and relatives abroad remain at higher risk of infection compared to tourists. This review presents a guidance on the initial assessment of a traveling febrile child including interpretation of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory findings. Important clues to etiology include exposure to different infectious agents, incubation periods of pathogens, and prophylaxis regimens and vaccines received. Early identification of potentially life-threatening and highly contagious infections is essential. In this article, we discuss the epidemiology, evaluation, and management of specific travel related infections such as malaria, typhoid fever, dengue fever, viral hemorrhagic fever, rickettsiosis, leptospirosis, schistosomiasis, gastrointestinal, and respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahed Abdel-Haq
- Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
- Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Basim I. Asmar
- Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
- Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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4
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Vlot JA, Vive MGD, Brockhoff HJ, van Genderen PJJ, Trompenaars MCE, van Steenbergen JE, Visser LG. Predicting morbidity in older travellers during a short-term stay in the tropics: the ELDEST study. J Travel Med 2021; 28:taaa216. [PMID: 33225347 PMCID: PMC7788562 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taaa216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older persons may suffer more from travel-related health problems because of ageing and underlying chronic disorders. Knowledge on who is more likely to have these health problems helps to tailor travel health advice more specifically. This study aimed to determine predictors of travel-related morbidity in older travellers by assessing their pre-travel characteristics and performance using physical and cognitive functioning tests. METHODS Multicentre prospective cohort study among older travellers (≥60 years) who consulted one of the participating Dutch travel clinics. Handgrip strength and cognitive performance were measured pre-travel. Participants completed questionnaires before departure and 1 and 4 weeks after return. A diary recorded health complaints during travel until 2-week post-travel. RESULTS In total, 477 travellers completed the study (follow-up rate of 97%). Participants' median age was 66 years. The most visited regions were South-East Asia (34%) and South Asia (14%). Median travel duration was 19 days. Polypharmacy (≥5 medications per day) was not uncommon (16%). The median Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score was 0. Self-reported travel-related infectious diseases concerned primarily respiratory tract infections (21%) and gastroenteritis (10%) whereas non-infectious complaints were injuries (13%), peripheral edema (12%) and dehydration (3%). Medical assistance was sought by 18%, mostly post-travel from their general practitioner (87%). Self-reported physical and mental health-related quality of life significantly improved during and after travel. Predictors for an increased risk of travel-related morbidity were higher CCI score, more travel experience, longer travel duration, higher number of daily medications, visiting northern Africa or South-East and East Asia, and phone and social media use. CONCLUSION Older Dutch travellers are generally fit, well-prepared and suffer not only from common infectious health problems, but also from injuries. Travel improved their self-perceived health. The predictors could be used to identify the more at-risk older traveller and to decrease travel-related morbidity by optimizing pre-travel advice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Vlot
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marissa G D Vive
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Henricus J Brockhoff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Municipal Health Service, Westeinde 128, 2512 HE The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter J J van Genderen
- Harbour Hospital and Institute for Tropical Diseases, currently working on Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - James E van Steenbergen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Netherlands Institute for Public Health and Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Leonardus G Visser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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5
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Stefanati A, Pierobon A, Baccello V, DeStefani E, Gamberoni D, Furlan P, Sandri F, Stano A, Coin P, Baldo V, Gabutti G. Travellers' risk behaviors and health problems: Post-travel follow up in two travel medicine centers in Italy. Infect Dis Now 2020; 51:279-284. [PMID: 33069841 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2020.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined the association between travellers' characteristics, compliance with pre-travel recommendations and health problems. METHODS Volunteer travellers were enrolled and data collected using a questionnaire between 30-60 days after returning home. We analyzed the associations through bivariate and multivariate models. RESULTS Of the 468 enrolled travelers, 68% consumed raw food and 81% food containing milk and/or eggs. 32% consumed street vendor food and 30% drinks containing ice. 24% used the recommended mechanical prophylaxis measures. 46% got sick during and/or after travel (gastrointestinal symptoms most frequently). Factors predisposing to health problems were female gender, youth/middle age, intermediate travel duration and profession. The American continent and staying in hostels and tents were significantly associated with febrile illness. Street vendor food was significantly associated with skin reactions. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to behavioral recommendations remains low. Travellers must be informed of health risks during and after travel.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Stefanati
- University of Ferrara, Department of Medical Sciences, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - A Pierobon
- Local Health Unit 7 Pedemontana, Veneto Regione, Departiment of Prevention, Bassano del Grappa, Italy
| | - V Baccello
- University of Ferrara, Department of Medical Sciences, Ferrara, Italy
| | - E DeStefani
- Local Health Unit 7 Pedemontana, Veneto Regione, Departiment of Prevention, Bassano del Grappa, Italy
| | - D Gamberoni
- University of Ferrara, Department of Medical Sciences, Ferrara, Italy
| | - P Furlan
- University of Padua, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Padua, Italy
| | - F Sandri
- University of Ferrara, Department of Medical Sciences, Ferrara, Italy
| | - A Stano
- Local Health Unit 7 Pedemontana, Veneto Regione, Departiment of Prevention, Bassano del Grappa, Italy
| | - P Coin
- Local Health Unit 7 Pedemontana, Veneto Regione, Departiment of Prevention, Bassano del Grappa, Italy
| | - V Baldo
- University of Padua, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Padua, Italy
| | - G Gabutti
- University of Ferrara, Department of Medical Sciences, Ferrara, Italy
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6
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Froeschl G, Nothdurft HD, von Sonnenburg F, Bretzel G, Polanetz R, Kroidl I, Seilmaier M, Orth HM, Jordan S, Kremsner P, Vygen-Bonnet S, Pritsch M, Hoelscher M, Rothe C. Retrospective clinical case series study in 2017 identifies Plasmodium knowlesi as most frequent Plasmodium species in returning travellers from Thailand to Germany. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 23. [PMID: 30043723 PMCID: PMC6152204 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2018.23.29.1700619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Febrile illnesses are common in travellers returning from south-east Asia. However, malaria is a rare diagnosis in this population. A series of Plasmodium knowlesi infections was noted in German travellers returning from Thailand since 2012. Infectious disease and tropical medicine facilities registered by the German Society for Tropical Medicine and International Health were contacted in March 2017, and asked to report previous P. knowlesi cases. In addition, surveillance data from the Robert Koch-Institute were analysed. The facilities reported a total of six P. knowlesi-positive cases, all were returning travellers from Thailand. The P. knowlesi-positive cases made up 6/9 of all diagnosed malaria cases imported from Thailand in the time period 2012 to 2017. In 4/5 of cases where a malaria rapid diagnostic test had been applied it revealed a negative result. P. knowlesi is an important differential diagnosis in travellers returning from south-east Asia with itineraries that include Thailand. This study highlights the importance of this Plasmodium species in this patient subgroup. Whenever malaria is suspected in a returning traveller from Thailand, P. knowlesi should be taken into consideration and a differential PCR be executed as currently the unequivocal diagnosis of P. knowlesi is based on nuclear amplification techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guenter Froeschl
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Hans Dieter Nothdurft
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Frank von Sonnenburg
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Gisela Bretzel
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Roman Polanetz
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Inge Kroidl
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | | | - Hans Martin Orth
- Klinik für Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie und Infektiologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sabine Jordan
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 1st Medical Department, Division of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Kremsner
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Reisemedizin und Humanparasitologie des Universitätsklinikums Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sabine Vygen-Bonnet
- Robert Koch-Institute, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Unit of Gastrointestinal Infections, Zoonoses and Tropical Infections, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Pritsch
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Hoelscher
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Camilla Rothe
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
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7
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug Fink
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Mortimer Market Centre, London, UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert Serafino Wani
- Department of Infection, Barts Health NHS Trust, Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Victoria Johnston
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Mortimer Market Centre, London, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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8
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Siikamäki H, Kivelä P, Fotopoulos M, Kantele A. A closer look at travellers' infections abroad: Finnish nationwide data with incidences, 2010 to 2012. Travel Med Infect Dis 2016; 15:29-36. [PMID: 27773779 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2016.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although infections represent the most common health problem of travellers abroad, data on morbidity and incidences of various infections are scarce. METHOD Data on infections of Finnish travellers during 2010-2012 were retrieved from the database of SOS International, an assistance organization covering 95% of Finns requiring aid abroad. The study included 30,086 cases. For incidence calculation, the data were linked to the numbers of Finns visiting these regions during the same period as recorded by the Official Statistics of Finland. RESULTS The incidence of infections was particularly high in Africa, southern Europe plus the eastern Mediterranean, and Asia plus Oceania. The most frequent diagnoses were acute gastroenteritis (38.0%) and respiratory-tract infections (RTI) (34.5%), followed by infections of the ear (12.6%), skin or subcutaneous tissue (5.1%), urogenital tract (4.2%), eye (3.1%), and systemic febrile infections (2.2%). Vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) accounted for 0.8% of cases, with varicella as most (49%) and influenza as second-most (27%) common. CONCLUSIONS Incidence of infections was higher in southern than in eastern and western Europe. Gastroenteritis and RTI proved the most frequent diagnoses, whereas systemic febrile infections were uncommon. Despite pre-travel immunizations, VPDs still occurred; pre-travel consultation should cover both varicella and influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Siikamäki
- Inflammation Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, POB 348, FI-00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland; SOS International, Nitivej 6, DK-2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Pia Kivelä
- Inflammation Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, POB 348, FI-00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Anu Kantele
- Inflammation Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, POB 348, FI-00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland; Karolinska Institute, Department of Medicine/Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden.
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9
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Vilkman K, Pakkanen SH, Lääveri T, Siikamäki H, Kantele A. Travelers' health problems and behavior: prospective study with post-travel follow-up. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:328. [PMID: 27412525 PMCID: PMC4944265 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1682-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The annual number of international tourist arrivals has recently exceeded one billion, yet surprisingly few studies have characterized travelers’ behavior, illness, and risk factors in a prospective setting. Particularly scarce are surveys of data spanning travel, return, and follow-up of the same cohort. This study examines behavior and illness among travelers while abroad, after return home, and at follow-up. Patterns of behavior connected to type of travel and illness are characterized so as to identify risk factors and provide background data for pre-travel advice. Methods Volunteers to this prospective cohort study were recruited at visits to a travel clinic prior to departure. Data on the subjects’ health and behavior were collected by questionnaires before and after journeys and over a three-week follow-up. In addition, the subjects were asked to fill in health diaries while traveling. Results The final study population consisted of 460 subjects, 79 % of whom reported illness during travel or on arrival: 69 % had travelers’ diarrhea (TD), 17 % skin problems, 17 % fever, 12 % vomiting, 8 % respiratory tract infection, 4 % urinary tract infection, 2 % ear infection, 4 % gastrointestinal complaints other than TD or vomiting, and 4 % other symptoms. Of all subjects, 10 % consulted a doctor and 0.7 % were hospitalized; 18 % took antimicrobials, with TD as the most common indication (64 %). Ongoing symptoms were reported by 25 % of all travelers upon return home. During the three-week follow-up (return rate 51 %), 32 % of respondents developed new-onset symptoms, 20 % visited a doctor and 1.7 % were hospitalized. Factors predisposing to health problems were identified by multivariable analysis: certain regions (Southern Asia, South-Eastern Asia, and Eastern Africa), female gender, young age, and long travel duration. Conclusions Despite proper preventive measures like vaccinations, malaria prophylaxis, and travel advice, the majority of our subjects fell ill during or after travel. As the symptoms mostly remained mild, health care services were seldom needed. Typical traveler profiles were identified, thereby providing a tool for pre-travel advice. The finding that one third reported new-onset illness during follow-up attests to the importance of advising clients on potential post-travel health problems already during pre-travel visits. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-016-1682-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katri Vilkman
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 3, (P.O. Box 21), 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,Inflammation Center, Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Aurora Hospital, Nordenskiöldinkatu 20, (P.O. Box 348), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari H Pakkanen
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 3, (P.O. Box 21), 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tinja Lääveri
- Inflammation Center, Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Aurora Hospital, Nordenskiöldinkatu 20, (P.O. Box 348), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heli Siikamäki
- Inflammation Center, Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Aurora Hospital, Nordenskiöldinkatu 20, (P.O. Box 348), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anu Kantele
- Inflammation Center, Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Aurora Hospital, Nordenskiöldinkatu 20, (P.O. Box 348), Helsinki, Finland. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Aava Travel Clinic, Medical Centre Aava, Annankatu 32, 00100, Helsinki, Finland. .,Unit of Infectious Diseases, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
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10
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Shady I, Gaafer M, Bassiony L. Travel risk behaviors as a determinants of receiving pre-travel health consultation and prevention. Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2015; 1:3. [PMID: 28883935 PMCID: PMC5526366 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-015-0003-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 30-60 % of travelers experience an illness while traveling. The incidence of travel-related illness can be reduced by preventive measures such as those provided by the Traveler Health Clinic (THC) in Kuwait. METHODS The present study is an analytical comparative study between groups of travelers visiting the THC during the study period (May 2009 - December 2010) and an age- and gender-matched control group of non-visitors (800 people). Both groups completed a modified pre-departure questionnaire. RESULTS Bivariate analysis revealed that Kuwaitis (68.2 %), those traveling for work (25.3 %) or leisure (59.5 %), those living in camps (20.4 %) or hotels (64.0 %), and those with knowledge of the THC from the media (28.1 %) or other sources (57.3 %), were more likely to be associated with a high frequency of visits to the THC (p < 0.001). Additionally, travelers heading to Africa (47 %) and South America (10 %) visited the THC more than did others (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that nationality, followed by purpose of travel, duration of stay, and choice of travel destination are independent predictors of receiving pre-travel consultation from the THC. CONCLUSION Nationality, purpose of travel, length of stay, and travel destination are predictors for receiving a pre-travel consultation from the THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Shady
- Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt
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11
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Siikamäki H, Kivelä P, Fotopoulos M, Ollgren J, Kantele A. Illness and injury of travellers abroad: Finnish nationwide data from 2010 to 2012, with incidences in various regions of the world. Euro Surveill 2015. [DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2015.20.19.21128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
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Affiliation(s)
- H Siikamäki
- Inflammation Center, Clinic for Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- SOS International, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - P Kivelä
- Inflammation Center, Clinic for Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - J Ollgren
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Kantele
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Inflammation Center, Clinic for Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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12
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Heywood AE, Zhang M, MacIntyre CR, Seale H. Travel risk behaviours and uptake of pre-travel health preventions by university students in Australia. BMC Infect Dis 2012; 12:43. [PMID: 22339735 PMCID: PMC3305552 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-12-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2011] [Accepted: 02/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Forward planning and preventative measures before travelling can significantly reduce the risk of many vaccine preventable travel-related infectious diseases. Higher education students may be at an increased risk of importing infectious disease as many undertake multiple visits to regions with higher infectious disease endemicity. Little is known about the health behaviours of domestic or international university students, particularly students from low resource countries who travel to high-resource countries for education. This study aimed to assess travel-associated health risks and preventative behaviours in a sample of both domestic and international university students in Australia. Methods In 2010, a 28 item self-administered online survey was distributed to students enrolled at the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. Multiple methods of distributing links to the online survey were utilised. The survey examined the international travel history, travel intentions, infection control behaviours and self-reported vaccination history. Results A total of 1663 respondents completed the online survey, 22.1% were international students and 83.9% were enrolled at an undergraduate level. Half had travelled internationally in the previous 12 months, with 69% of those travelling only once during that time with no difference in travel from Australia between domestic and international students (p = 0.8). Uptake of pre-travel health advice was low overall with 68% of respondents reporting they had not sought any advice from a health professional prior to their last international trip. Domestic students were more likely to report uptake of a range of preventative travel health measures compared to international students, including diarrhoeal medication, insect repellent, food avoidance and condoms (P < 0.0001). Overall, students reported low risk perception of travel threats and a low corresponding concern for these threats. Conclusions Our study highlights the need to educate students about the risk associated with travel and improve preventative health-seeking and uptake of precautionary health measures in this highly mobile young adult population. Although immunisation is not an entry requirement to study at Universities in Australia, large tertiary institutions provide an opportunity to engage with young adults on the importance of travel health and provision of vaccines required for travel, including missed childhood vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita E Heywood
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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13
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Heywood AE, Watkins RE, Pattanasin S, Iamsirithaworn S, Nilvarangkul K, Macintyre CR. Self-reported symptoms of infection among travelers departing from Sydney and Bangkok airports. J Travel Med 2010; 17:243-9. [PMID: 20636597 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2010.00422.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on the burden of illness in travelers departing from both developing and developed countries within the Asia-Pacific region is scarce. We conducted a survey to assess symptoms of infection among travelers within the region. METHODS A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to travelers departing Sydney airport, Australia, for destinations in Asia and departing Bangkok Airport, Thailand, for Australian destinations during the respective winter months of 2007. A two-stage cluster sampling technique was developed to ensure representativeness and a weighting was applied to the Sydney sample. Travelers were assessed for symptoms of infection (fever, sore throat, diarrhea, rash, and myalgia), travel activities, and social contact in the 2 weeks prior to departure. RESULTS A total of 843 surveys was included in the final sample (Sydney 729, response rate 56%; Bangkok 114, response rate 60%). Overall, 45.6% of respondents were Australian residents and 26.7% were residents of countries in Asia. At least one symptom of infection was reported by 23.8% of respondents and 5.4% reported two or more symptoms of infection in the 2 weeks prior to departure. The proportion reporting symptoms was higher in those departing Bangkok compared to Sydney. Significant risk factors for the reporting of symptoms differed between residents and visitors departing each study site. Activities resulting in high rates of social contact prior to travel, particularly contact with febrile persons, were found to be independent predictors of reported symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Self-reported symptoms of infection were common in our sample of travelers. Infectious diseases in travelers can result in spread across international borders and may be associated with the frequency of social contacts and reported illness among travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita E Heywood
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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Hachiya M, Kikuchi H, Mizoue T. Descriptive epidemiology of travel-associated diarrhea based on surveillance data at Narita International Airport. J Travel Med 2010; 17:105-10. [PMID: 20412177 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2009.00386.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although travelers' diarrhea is one of the most common health problems among international travelers, current findings depend largely on hospital and clinic-based information. To better understand the disease epidemiology and to identify specific subpopulations with increased risks, denominator data covering a large traveler population are needed. METHODS We conducted a questionnaire survey of all travelers at the quarantine station, Narita International Airport, and retrospectively reviewed records from January 2001 to December 2005. The Immigration Bureau database was used as denominator data on travel patterns during the same period. To elucidate the risks of contracting diarrhea, we estimated incidence according to age, sex, month of travel, and travel destination. RESULTS A total of 7,937,654 people voluntarily submitted questionnaires; 9,836 had travelers' diarrhea. Travelers of both sexes aged 20 to 29 years reported the disease most frequently. Men aged 20 to 24 had the highest estimated incidence compared with any other age and sex group. The incidence was higher in March, August, and September than other months, mainly due to the influx of young adult travelers. Travel to south-central Asia, Southeast Asia, and North Africa was associated with higher risks than that to other areas. CONCLUSIONS Risks of contracting travelers' diarrhea are dependent on age, sex, season, and destination of travel. Incidence of diarrhea in all four seasons varies with age. Some destinations are associated with increased risks regardless of age. To prevent travelers from contracting diarrhea, adequate measures should focus on specific subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiko Hachiya
- Quarantine Station, Narita International Airport, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND No guidelines exist for the planning of aeromedical repatriation after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In 2004, we employed a risk evaluation-based decision-making system for repatriation of patients after AMI. The objective was to evaluate the safety of transports during 2005 managed by this system. METHODS A total of 116 patients were transported according to the algorithm, 64 unescorted and 52 escorted. The decision-making system was based on the recommendations given by the European Society of Cardiology. Whenever possible, patients were evaluated by coronary angiogram or exercise electrocardiogram. Patients at high risk were treated locally if appropriate facilities were available or evacuated to the nearest heart center. Patients at low risk were allowed to fly unescorted home if no other concomitant diseases needed the attention of a physician. The composite end point of death of any cause during transport or departure from the planned repatriation due to worsening of the condition was registered. RESULTS No patients reached the end point. Patients who were not risk evaluated more often needed escort (p < 0.04). Escorted patients were older (p < 0.001) and had more post-AMI complications (p < 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Patients can safely travel unescorted after AMI if their risk of ischemia is low as determined by risk stratification examination prior to repatriation.
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