Shots Needed For Travel to India
Prevention
We recommend that you receive the shots two months the travel date.
Facts About Hepatitis A
-What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is most often an acute (not chronic) infection that lasts only a few weeks.
-How do you get it?
Hepatitis A is transmitted by the fecal-oral route, usually from water or food that has been contaminated (often from food handlers). It is associated with poor hygiene and is much more common in developing countries than in the US. It is uncommon for Hepatitis A to be spread from person to person, however anyone in close contact (kissing, eating from same plate or utensils, or sharing the same bathroom with a patient who has the virus) may be at risk and should be tested.
-What are the associated symptoms?
After being exposed to Hepatitis A there is a incubation period of 15-40 days (where the virus is infecting the body without any symptoms). The person may then complain of fever, decreased appetite, vomiting, headache, and abdominal pain. As the person begins to feel better they may become jaundice (the skin turns yellowish) and have dark urine and light colored stool. The liver may be tender also (the liver is under the right ribs). Although these are the most common symptoms, many children who get Hepatitis A never have any symptoms at all.
-How is it diagnosed?
People who think that they may have Hepatitis A, or those who think that they have been exposed to the virus, should see their doctor. A simple blood test can tell you if you have the virus right now or if you have ever had the virus before. It can also tell if you are immune to it.
-How do you treat it?
There is no treatment for Hepatitis A. It usually lasts a few weeks and goes away on its own. Consult your doctor for advice on how to manage the symptoms.
-How can you prevent it?
There is a vaccine for people at high risk for Hepatitis A (like those traveling to developing countries). Two shots are needed 6-12 months apart. The vaccine should be given at least one month before expected travel. If you do travel to areas where Hepatitis A is common, try to avoid uncooked food, shellfish, and possibly contaminated water. If you think that you have been exposed to the virus see your doctor immediately. There is a shot that may be given to stop the virus (if given within 2 weeks).
-Are there any complications?
99% of children recover from the Hepatitis A virus without any complications. In 1% of cases there may be ongoing problems with the liver and a liver transplant may be needed.
Facts About Typhoid Fever
-What is typhoid fever?
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that gets into the blood and multiplies in the liver and spleen.
-How do you get it?
Typhoid fever is transmitted by the fecal-oral route, often through food or water that has been contaminated with feces. It is most frequently seen in developing countries and is rare in the US. Transmission from person to person is rare although people in close contact with the infected person may become ill.
-What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include fever (rising higher each day), headache, chills, sore throat, sleepiness, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. They may become irritable and some may develop a rash (usually less than 20 red spots on the chest and back that fade with pressure). Vomiting is common in infants. Symptoms may last up to 6 weeks without treatment.
-How is it diagnosed?
Typhoid fever is diagnosed by examining the blood, urine, or stool for the bacteria that causes it (Salmonella typhi). Other blood tests may also help in the diagnosis.
-How do you treat it?
Typhoid fever is treated with 14-21 days of appropriate antibiotic therapy. It is important to see a doctor as soon as symptoms begin because early treatment is critical.
-How can you prevent it?
There are three different kinds of vaccines available against typhoid fever that should be given to anyone traveling to a developing country. Your doctor will choose the most appropriate vaccine for you. The vaccine helps to protect you from typhoid fever for approximately 2 years. Travelers should be advised that none of the vaccines offer total protection, and it is important to be very cautious of what you eat and drink. The vaccine is not given to children under 2 years old.
-Are there any complications?
With early treatment the prognosis is good (death occurs in less than 1% of those infected). The most common complication is GI bleeding (2-10% of patients). Other complications are rare and your doctor will discuss them with you.
Facts About Malaria
-What is malaria?
Malaria is a serious and potentially deadly disease that is common in tropical and subtropical areas.
-How do you get it?
Malaria is transmitted via the female mosquito. Malaria infected mosquito’s are common in Africa, India, Pakistan, Haiti, Nepal, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Central and South America.
-What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include fever (may be cyclic or irregular), sweats, chills, headache, body aches, and tiredness. Infants may have fever, irritability, poor feeding, and vomiting. Symptoms take anywhere from a few days to several months after being infected to develop.
-How is it diagnosed?
Malaria is diagnosed by identifying the parasite in the blood. It is important to always inform your doctor of any recent travel, especially if you develop a fever.
-How do you treat it?
There are several different drugs available to treat malaria. Hospitalization may be required for treatment of some patients. The drug used for treatment as well as the length of treatment depends on the type of malaria.
-How can you prevent it?
Anti-malarial drugs (to protect against malaria) are available to anyone who is traveling to areas where malaria is common. These drugs should be started 2 weeks before traveling and should be continued for 4 weeks after returning home. These drugs are safe for children of all ages.
-Are there any complications?
Complications in children include seizures, changes in consciousness, breathing problems, coma, and death. If you have traveled recently and have begin to experience the symptoms mentioned above, seek treatment immediately.
Dr. Gavini's Website Dr. Gavini's ADHD Site Dr. Gavini's Herbs & Kids Site