International travelers are advised to contact their medical providers and foreign travel clinics for information related to communicable disease threats in foreign countries.  

“Increased travel during the upcoming spring break periods provides an opportunity to review immunization status and identify region specific health threats.” stated Paul Myers, Assistant Director of the Alachua County Health Department.  “Minimizing adverse health impacts associated with international travel can be achieved through a medical consultation”.

Approximately 8-10% of travelers become sick enough to seek health care, either while overseas or after returning home. Within the last few months, outbreaks of measles have occurred in Canada, Spain, France, U.K., and areas of Africa and Asia. 

Carrying documentation of vaccines can prevent students and others from receiving an unneeded vaccine in an unwanted situation, or having to pay for it there. Even for close popular student destinations, such as the Caribbean and Mexico, travelers should have timely education and information about preventing diseases and accidents and have their immunizations reviewed and up dated.

Travelers are encouraged to contact their medical provider or the Alachua County Health Department’s Foreign Travel Clinic 4 to 6 weeks in advance of their trip at 352-334-8849.

For more information, visit http://www.alachuacountyhealth.com/.