Returning from travel abroad:
After routine travel for short amounts of time, a medical examination is usually not necessary. However, in certain circumstances, it is advisable to be seen by your physician. These include the following:
- if you suffer from a chronic disease
Persons who suffer from chronic diseases such as HIV/AIDS, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and/or liver disease should consult their physician for a medical examination.
- if you experience any of the following after returning from travel
Persons who have fever, diarrhea, vomiting, jaundice, urinary problems, skin or genital infections, or flu-like symptoms shortly after returning from travel should have a medical examination immediately.
- if you have been abroad for a long period of time
Having a medical examination after a long stay abroad is advised. While certain diseases do not develop immediately after travel, some may appear within a few weeks. Anyone who becomes ill after returning from extended travel abroad should contact his/her physician immediately.
There is always the possibility that a person who has been traveling has contracted an unusual disease - some with symptoms that do not become evident until many months following exposure (i.e., malaria). Consult your physician for more information.