There are more than 700 million international travelers annually and despite tragic events such as 9/11 or emerging disease epidemics such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), it appears that travel will continue to grow as one of the major “businesses” of the world. Indeed, travel is becoming more exotic and adventuresome, leaving no space on Earth untouched. However, studies continue to show that 50% to 75% of short-term travelers, particularly to the tropics or subtropics, develop some health impairment. Fortunately, most problems are minor, with only 5% requiring medical attention and fewer than 1% requiring hospitalization. Valuable sources of information for travel health advisors are found in Table 114.1.

All travelers should be encouraged to carry a travel health kit, which should always remain with the traveler and never be stowed with baggage (except for those items that can not be taken in the carry-on luggage) (Table 114.2). In addition, travelers should make sure that they are aware of a health care provider at home should they develop illness. Those with more serious chronic diseases will want to make sure they have additional health insurance to cover them in the event of illness abroad and should consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance (as well as trip cancellation insurance). All primary care providers should make it a habit of asking their patients who see them for routine examinations whether they will be traveling.