Colombia – Use mosquito repellant to avoid bites
As per Colombia’s Ministry of Health, more than 6,900 cases of chikungunya fever a week are currently occurring, primarily in Huila, Tolima, and Valle del Cauca departments Chikungunya should be considered in any traveler presenting with fever within 12 days of returning from this country.
Nicaragua – Use Mosquito repellent to avoid bites
From the PAHO (Pan American Health Organization), more than 23,690 suspected and confirmed cases of chikungunya fever have been reported since early October 2014; the outbreak has yet to peak. Chikungunya is an arboviral infection transmitted by mosquitoes. Travelers are advised to practice daytime insect precautions. Chikungunya should be considered in any traveler presenting with fever within 12 days of returning from this country.
Singapore – use frequent hand washing
As per Singapore’s Ministry of Health, more than 500 confirmed cases a week of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) are currently occurring, with more than 6,900 confirmed cases, a significant increase over average incidence, reported throughout the country since January 2015; the outbreak has yet to peak.. Travelers should exercise particular care in hygiene habits, including frequent handwashing
Japan – Use frequent hand washing
AS per Japan’s Ministry of Health, more than 1,400 confirmed cases a week of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) are currently occurring, with more than 15,200 confirmed cases, a significant increase over average incidence, reported throughout the country, especially in Fukuoka, Hyogo, and Osaka prefectures since January 2015; the outbreak has yet to peak.. Travelers should exercise particular care in hygiene habits, including frequent handwashing.
Niger – Keep your MMR uptodate
As per Niger’s Ministry of Health, more than 2,000 cases of measles, a significant increase over the average incidence, have been reported throughout the country since January 2015. The current weekly incidence is 5-fold greater than that in 2014. The most-affected areas are southeastern Zinder Region, including the city of Zinder, and the western half of Agadez Region, including the city of Agadez.
Photo Credit: Insurance Services of America