Travel Medicine
Traveling abroad can be both exciting and intimidating. At EmergencyMD we follow the current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for travel medicine. We can keep you and your family safe from illness.
Many of the diseases encountered are unique to various regions and foreign countries. It is essential to be properly immunized before heading on your trip.
Diseases such as Malaria, Encephalitis, and Yellow Fever can be life-threatening. Our Travel Medicine Consultation will review common diseases, discuss prevention, and inform on what to do if illness strikes. We spend time educating you and your family on what to expect.
We’re experienced both as providers and as travelers with many adventurers on our staff.
Why Are We The Best?
Malaria
Malaria is carried and transmitted by mosquitos. In 2013 there were 198 million cases. Malaria is common in South America, Central America Africa and India. Greenville, SC has seen cases in travelers from these regions. Symptoms include high fevers weakness and altered mental status. Malaria travelers can prevent infection by taking prophylactic antibiotics prio to, during and after travel.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever (viral hemorrhagic fever) is a mosquito born illness endemic to the americas. Its a viral illness without treatment so prevention is key. It can be a mild illness but also can be life threatening. Fortunately there is a vaccine that is effective in preventing illness. It is endemic to Africa, Asia and South America. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, headaches and yellowing of the skin.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection found commonly in developing nations.It is transmitted by feces and oral ingestion. Proper sanitationn, hygiene and hand washing are essential to preventing illness. Fortunately hepatitis A can be prevented with vaccination. If you are traveling to endemic regions for business or pleasure the travel medicine center at EmergencyMD can help. Stop in today.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi. The illness is categorized by severe vomiting, fever and rose color spots. Up to 70% of typhoid can be prevented with vaccination. Typhoid is endemic to India and children are most commonly affected. It can also be found in Africa and southeast asia. As many as 25% can die if left untreated.
Zika
Zika virus is a relatively minor illness to most patients however for pregnant women and unborn fetus the illness can be devastating. It is found in South, Central America and Africa. Brazil is an epicenter. The virus is transmitted by a mosquito, sexually and through the womb. Most common symptoms are rash, joint pain, fever and conjunctivitis.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is an infection that affects the brain and central nervous system. There are several different forms and most are carried by mosquitos and ticks. In fact Japanese Encephalitis is the most common preventable encephalitis. This disease affects travelers to Asia and the Pacific. While a vaccine is available it is not approved in the United States. Avoidance is key.
