Tulsa Health Department – Epidemiology Program
Traveling opens doors to new cultures, foods, and experiences—but it can also bring exposure to unfamiliar health risks. If you’ve recently returned from a trip and aren’t feeling 100%, here’s what you need to know to stay on top of your health.
Feeling Unwell After Travel?
Whether you were abroad or just out of town, any recent travel can expose you to viruses, bacteria, and other health risks. Especially if you’ve been to a country experiencing an outbreak, it’s important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if needed.
Common Travel-Related Illnesses
- Gastrointestinal Issues – Diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea may stem from traveler’s diarrhea, salmonella or norovirus.
- Skin Conditions – Rashes or irritation could point to hookworm, scabies or fungal infections.
- Respiratory Problems – Coughing, sore throat, or breathing issues may be caused by influenza, COVID-19, tuberculosis or legionnaires’ disease.
- Fever – A high temperature may indicate malaria, dengue, typhoid or chikungunya.
Note: The types of infectious diseases a person may be exposed to depend heavily on the locations visited and specific activities during travel. Symptoms can vary and sometimes overlap. While not common, co-infections—having more than one infection at the same time—can occur, making it especially important to share your full travel history with your healthcare provider.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of the following, contact a healthcare provider:
- Persistent or Severe Symptoms – Such as ongoing diarrhea, vomiting or fatigue
- High Fever or Chills – Especially after visiting areas where malaria or typhoid are present
- Difficulty Breathing – May point to infections like COVID-19, flu or TB
- Unusual Skin Rashes or Lesions – Especially if painful or spreading; may suggest dengue, chikungunya or mpox (monkeypox)
Prepare for Your Doctor’s Visit
To help your provider diagnose and treat you accurately, be prepared to share:
- Your Itinerary: Countries, cities and how long you stayed
- Your Activities: Swimming, hiking, animal contact, insect bites or eating local foods
- Health Precautions Taken: Vaccines, medications (like malaria prophylaxis), insect repellent, etc.
Preventive Measures for Future Travels
Before You Go:
- Book a travel health consultation through the Tulsa Health Department:
- Visit a travel medicine specialist
- Pack a health kit with essential medications
While You’re Away:
- Practice good hygiene and frequent handwashing
- Drink safe water and eat well-cooked food
- Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing
Stay Informed. Stay Healthy.
Your health is a priority—even after the vacation ends. Monitoring your body, recognizing warning signs early, and seeking care can help ensure that the only thing you bring home from your travels is great memories.
For more info, check out the CDC’s full post-travel health guide in their Yellow Book which contains all things related to health and travel.
