Hair-raising cases of illness can raise concerns before a trip, but before you shop around among the clinics' vaccine offerings, you should inform yourself about the real health risks. Otherwise, you risk worrying about the wrong things, says state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell.
– For example, that you are more afraid of rabies than of renting a motorcycle.
Having your vacation ruined by illness consistently tops the list of things Swedish tourists worry about most before a trip. Reports of unusual, sometimes even fatal, illnesses can contribute to that anxiety.
Without minimizing tragic cases of illness, it is important to be aware of the risks, says Anders Tegnell, state epidemiologist at the Swedish Public Health Agency.
– Of all the millions of people who travel around the world, extremely few are affected by these spectacular diseases, he tells SVT Nyheter.
Afraid of the wrong things?
When asked what a tourist should really worry about the most, the answer comes quickly.
– It's the traffic. It's the most dangerous thing when you're abroad, says Tegnell.
That many "tourist vaccines" may be an unnecessary expense in relation to the risk is a recurring topic of media reporting.
Anders Tegnell emphasizes that you can spend your own money on whatever you want, but that it is important that people do not worry about the wrong things.
– For example, that you are more afraid of rabies than of renting a motorcycle.
Three tips to consider
All the concern is not unfounded. It is wise to be cautious based on accurate information and the Public Health Agency of Sweden urges people not to pet animals abroad, for example. For tourists in general, there are also infections – and vaccines – that should be kept in mind, according to Tegnell.
– First of all, I think you should update the vaccines you have from childhood. Measles, diphtheria, tetanus and so on. That protection is good to have in all situations in life.
Secondly, it is hepatitis.
– It's pretty good to have it at the bottom if you travel a lot.
The third is the risk of becoming infected with multi-resistant bacteria, for example during treatment abroad. If you have received such treatment and are ill, you should inform your doctor at home.
– Partly so that you get the right treatment, but also so that you ensure that there is no further spread.
Source: svt.se
