Few things can derail a vacation faster than falling ill. While many travelers may occasionally suffer from a mild stomach upset, there are far more dire health risks that adventurers should be aware of, particularly given the global health landscape that is ongoing today.

One significant concern is the spread of mpox, a viral illness previously known as monkeypox. Initial fatality rates for this disease reached 10%, but recent statistics show that a daunting 3.3% fatality rate persists. The ongoing outbreak has sparked international alarm, especially after Sweden reported its first case of the severe clade Ib variant of mpox, which has traveled outside Africa to Thailand, Pakistan, and the Philippines.

With the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring the outbreak as a “public health emergency of international concern,” travelers should exercise vigilance. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that those at high risk receive two doses of the Jynneos mpox vaccine.

In addition to viral threats, travelers should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue fever. The CDC suggests using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing treated with permethrin, especially in areas known for these diseases.

After years without a widely available dengue vaccine, good news has arrived! The Qdenga vaccine has been launched in the UK, EU, and select other countries, while Dengvaxia is available in the U.S. However, even with vaccines now accessible, experts like Dr. Nicky Longley from The Hospital for Tropical Diseases caution that these vaccines do not offer robust protection for individuals who haven’t contracted dengue before. High-risk individuals who have suffered through dengue in the past, like travel writer Chris Dwyer, who contracted the illness in Malaysia, highlight the importance of considering vaccination, especially for those frequently traveling to endemic regions.

Exciting developments also surround malaria, with hopes of eradication spurred on by the recent introduction of an affordable vaccine, particularly beneficial to high-risk populations in Africa, where malaria takes a tragic toll on children under five. While this news is promising, health experts maintain that a malaria vaccine for global travelers remains distant, as the current vaccines require ongoing exposure and boosters.

Travelers heading to malaria-prone zones should ensure they are well-versed on prevention methods. A cautionary tale comes from Anniina Sandberg, a seasoned traveler who once naively stopped antimalarial medication, leading to severe illness. After being struck down by both malaria and typhoid fever during a field study in Tanzania, Sandberg emphasizes that while travel can be risky, informed precautions are critical.

As travelers venture into regions where rabies is a threat, such as parts of Asia and even Europe, understanding the necessity of rabies vaccinations becomes crucial. The lifespan of the rabies virus and the time needed for symptoms to appear make post-exposure treatment a race against time. In cases where exposure might occur, it's also vital to ensure that any vaccinations received abroad are verified and appropriate.

Other overlooked viruses, such as tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), also pose risks in parts of Europe, particularly for those engaged in outdoor activities. Vaccination for such diseases is advisable for high-risk individuals.

In all cases, understanding vaccine availability, seeking proper health advice prior to travel, and maintaining vigilance throughout the journey is critical to safeguarding your health against potential threats.

Before embarking on any trip, confirm that you and your family are up-to-date on routine childhood vaccinations recommended by health authorities, and consult with healthcare professionals about additional vaccines relevant to your travel destinations. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy your travels!