Dismiss Modal

Healthy Living

Common Health Problems Linked to Travel in Developing Countries

Choose a preferred language

Some of the most common health problems linked with travel to developing countries are:

  • Traveler's diarrhea. This is by far the most common risk. It affects up to 4 in 5 international travelers based on the destination.

  • Enterotoxic E. coli diarrhea

  • Malaria

  • Acute febrile respiratory tract infections

  • Influenza

Less common infections may also be a risk in certain areas. Some are related to sexual contact with an infected person: 

  • Hepatitis (A, B, and C)

  • Gonorrhea

  • Animal bites with rabies

  • Typhoid and paratyphoid fever

  • HIV infection

  • Legionella infection

  • Cholera

  • Meningococcal disease

  • Dengue fever

  • Prion diseases

  • Yellow fever

  • Tuberculosis

  • SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome)

  • Poliomyelitis

A new travel risk since December 2019 is COVID-19. It's caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2, which is a type of coronavirus. All parts of the world are affected. You must take precautions during travel. Travel to highly affected areas is best done for essential reasons only. Limiting travel to these areas is strongly encouraged. For the most current CDC travel advisories, visit the CDC website.

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Find a doctor that's right for you.

From routine check-ups to groundbreaking treatments and beyond, Crestner Health is here to help you live your healthiest life.

Search our doctors
Related Articles
Read article
Wellness
Travel Vaccine Planning

Review your vaccine history with your healthcare provider. Also be sure that infants and children are on schedule with their vaccine series.

Read article
Wellness
Cruise Ship Safety

Detailed information on traveling healthy while on cruise ships

Read article
Wellness
Traveling With Special Needs

Detailed information for travelers with special needs

Read article
Wellness
Air Travel

Detailed information on healthy considerations for air travel, including ways to prevent motion sickness and jet lag