Prevention and treatment of travel-related infections in compromised hosts

Abstract

Purpose of review: The numbers of international travelers and complexity of their underlying medical conditions continue to increase. Traveling with compromised immunity warrants special consideration regarding the prevention and treatment of travel-related diseases, ideally with the help of a travel medicine specialist. There is a need for careful weighing of the potential health risks in persons with severe immunosuppression, including that related to HIV, use of immunomodulating agents, malignancy and cancer chemotherapy, solid organ and bone marrow transplantation, and asplenia.

Recent findings: Over the past year, a number of articles and texts have been published addressing the health risks and management strategies for travelers with underlying immune compromise, including the potential interactions between HIV and malaria, and transplant outcomes for those receiving transplants through medical tourism.

Summary: Tailored advice and treatment strategies for compromised travelers can help facilitate safe travel for individuals who choose risk-taking travel.