By Bae Ji-sook
Staff Reporter
Epidemic diseases are entering the country from overseas destinations as more tourists visit foreign countries for summer vacations. With more than 10 million people traveling abroad every year, there are some important things to consider beyond sightseeing and relaxation _ safety and health.
The Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention said that about 120 overseas visitors were diagnosed with infectious diseases. Of them, 35 had dengue fever, which causes sever headaches, muscle and joint pain and rashes, and can even be fatal. The number of reported patients with dengue fever rose steadily from 16 in 2004 to 34 in 2005 and 36 last year.
Malaria, one of the most common diseases, also had a strong infection rate among tourists. The disease that causes high fever, convulsions and nausea has struck 18 tourists already this year.
Cholera, mostly contracted through eating raw fish, crabs or clams, was diagnosed in four cases.
Most of those infected were visitors to Southeast Asian countries. Tourists coming back from those areas must immediately report to quarantine at the airport.
The government plans to follow tighter guidelines and stresses that overseas visitors should take extra care in their living conditions and eating habits.
Below are a few tips for travelers venturing abroad.
Mind the water: water is essential for living, but sometimes can cause stomachache and diarrhea that can turn a trip into a nightmare. Experts suggest using boiled or bottled water. Sometimes even brushing your teeth with untreated water can lead to problems.
In many cases, your organs just need time to get used to local germs in the water, but if diarrhea does not stop for more than three days, you must visit the local hospital for treatment.
Beware of mosquitoes: Those who visit Southeast Asian countries must watch out for mosquitoes. The pestering insect carries a slew of diseases ranging from malaria, heartworm, yellow fever, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis. Malaria is said to affect more than 200 million people a year. Travelers are urged to stay inside from dusk until dawn, when the insect actively works; if not, you should wear long sleeved shirts and long pants.
Taking malaria pills twice for two weeks before departure and taking another four a month after arriving back home is the best way to prevent the disease.
Those who have teeth or gum problems should deal with the disease prior to departure. Fatigue from long flights can worsen the disease.
While seated in the plane it's a good idea to stretch your body and move around as much as possible, which may help prevent blood clots and your neck or back from getting stiff.