It’s bit more than two months to the start of the World Cup 2014 in Brazil. As there are many football fans preparing to travel to Brazil to see the matches live, we’ve been speaking to Dr Marcus Marquardt about a trip to Brazil from doctor’s point of view.

According to you what are the main health risks for travellers there?

Apart from crime and dangerous traffic, travellers to Brazil should be mainly aware of mosquito-borne diseases, contaminated food and

STDs.

Mosquitoes as well as flies, ticks and bugs can spread serious illnesses and death. They can cause malaria, dengue or yellow fever.  Additionally to avoiding insect bites stick to food and water safety guidelines. Contaminated water can cause hepatitis A, typhoid fever and travellers’ diarrhoea. Avoid street food for the same reasons.

Another tempting but dangerous pleasure is swimming in fresh water – lakes and rivers. You could get a parasitic infection schistosomiasis that can cause serious health problems.

When visiting sports events such as World Cup matches make sure you drink plenty of (bottled!) water. It will prevent you from dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and keep yourself cool.

This looks like wide range of potential threats. What can be done to minimize risks?

Many of the diseases I’ve mentioned are preventable by simple vaccination. First of all make sure that your tetanus, diphtheria and polio

myelitis vaccinations are up to date. The combination of other vaccines can vary according to your destination.  And your doctor will suggest to you the most appropriate combination based on your destination and medical history. Combination of vaccines can include hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever and prescription medicine against malaria. If you’re planning longer trip in rural area rabies vaccination can be included. To make sure that all the vaccinations are fully working visit your doctor at least 4 to 6 weeks before travelling.

If you won’t be able to resist the seduction of Brazil, be sure you behave responsibly and do not expose yourself to unnecessary risks (and consider sexual health screen upon arrival).

And there is a simple and easy to remember rule for food and drinks: “Peel it, cook it, boil it or forget it!”.

If you would like to book a travel consultation with Dr Marquardt or one of his colleagues please call us.