Leishmaniasis, or what to be afraid of on vacation

Leishmaniasis, or what to be afraid of on vacation – main image

Holidays in an exotic country are associated with a lot of memories, and sometimes also with unpleasant experiences. It is not so bad when we leave them behind when we leave a given place, however, sometimes the consequences of a successful vacation make themselves felt after a few weeks, manifesting themselves with fever and other ailments.

The first threat is a tropical parasitic disease known as malaria . Flu-like symptoms may appear even a few months after you return from vacation. They cannot be underestimated, especially if on vacation we slept in a room without air conditioning, no mosquito nets, and we did not use mosquito repellent. Insects do not like air movement, so when looking for a place to stay, we should think about savings and, however, pay extra for air conditioning.

Aedes mosquitoes can spread dengue . They can be found in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, but also in Madeira. The symptoms are similar to a mild flu, but they can also develop into a hemorrhagic fever. Treatment is by taking a vaccine.

Cons of beautiful beaches

Not only mosquitoes are dangerous. In the Mediterranean countries, in the Middle East and in Africa, there is a fly, the bite of which causes leishmaniasis . In order to protect against insect attacks, use insect repellent and cover as much of the body as possible. However, if you notice a fever of up to 40 degrees Celsius for 3 days after 3-6 days, headaches, pains in the eyes, joints and muscles, you should immediately contact your doctor and start antibiotic therapy. Leishmaniasis is fatal if left untreated.

On Caribbean beaches, it is better not to walk in flip-flops or stay after dusk. Then the sand flea comes to life, a nuisance insect that bites into the skin, causing tungosis . Partially hidden under the surface like a tick, it feeds on blood and lays eggs. It sounds macabre, but it's not dangerous until the wounds are torn open. Secondary infections can lead to gangrene and even sepsis. If you notice itchy, red skin with a black spot in the center, see a doctor who will remove the insect and prescribe appropriate antibiotics.

Forewarned is forearmed

When we are talking about human glia or tapeworm, it is not necessary to mention countries as exotic as Thailand or Bangladesh - unfortunately, in Poland we will find pubs where vegetables and fruits are not thoroughly washed. However, while on vacation in a distant country, we have to double-watch ourselves, because we can come across cysts of lamblia or amoebas , which can lead to serious stomach upsets. If we are not sure whether the fruit or vegetables have been disinfected, we can do it ourselves by rinsing them with a solution of potassium permanganate or iodine (you can buy it at a pharmacy and dissolve it in water).

It is not about giving up pleasure, but being cautious. That the holiday would be associated only with pleasant memories.

Ken.G
Ken.G

A writer by profession, a passion of a cat. One day he will see what is behind the Urals - good to Vladivostok. So far, when he can, he enjoys the sun of the countries of southern Europe. And it's also fun;)

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