Travellers returning ill from the tropics – a descriptive retrospective study

nternational travel continues to increase in frequency. Health care providers need a wide understanding of the spectrum of travel related diseases and their management. This retrospective study analyses the demographic and clinical data of 360 travellers returning from the tropics presenting to an outpatient clinic at a tertiary hospital between 2003 - 2007. The aim of this study was to analyse the frequency of presenting symptoms and diseases in ill returning travellers and to correlate them to the areas visited and the duration and purpose of travel. The main symptoms during travel were diarrhoea (n = 200, 56 %) and fever (n = 124, 34 %). Travellers not visiting friends and relatives but with close contact to the local population were at more than two-fold increased risk of diarrhoea (Odds Ratio [OR] 2.5; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.1-6.0, p = 0.03) and fever (OR 2.4; 95 % CI 1.1-5.3; p = 0.02) compared to tourist travellers. Travellers visiting friends and relatives (VFR) were not at increased risk for diarrhoea (OR 0.6; 95 % CI 0.3-1.3; p = 0.17), or fever (OR 1.5; 95 % CI 0.7-3.4; p = 0.28). Thirty-two percent of all travellers (n = 115) were diagnosed with a specific pathogen. Malaria (6 %), giardiasis (6 %) and amebiasis (4 %) were the most frequently detected pathogens. The odds of malaria as a cause of the presenting illness was lower among travellers reporting pre-travel advice. Specific antimicrobial treatment was required in around one third of the patients.

Calvin O'Neal, UM Football, at 1979 Indiana game, returning all-American

[Calvin O'Neal, one of 34 returning All-Americans for 1979 homecoming game]

An analysis of motorcycle side impact. Interim report of test results.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.

Impact of motorcycle helmet usage in Colorado : final report /

September 1978.

Evaluation of state motorcycle helmet laws using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. Final report.

Mode of access: Internet.

Motorcycle operator licensing - issue paper.

Mode of access: Internet.

Truck, bus, and motorcycle safety status methodology: final report. Volume II: technical report.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.

Motorcycle accident cause factors and identification of countermeasures. Volume II: appendix/supplemental data. Final report.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D.C.