Travel-Related Infections Among Pregnant Travellers to the Tropics: An Overview

Abstract

Infectious diseases acquired during travel pose a significant health risk to pregnant travellers, who are more susceptible to both acquiring certain infections and developing severe complications. A review of the literature focusing on recent evidence-based guidelines was conducted with attention to tropical infections in the pregnant patient. A summary meant to serve as a succinct reference for health care professionals caring for pregnant women is presented. Magnitude of risk, clinical features, management, and preventive strategies of major travel-acquired infections of pertinence to the pregnant traveller are summarized, including malaria, arboviral infections, foodborne infections, helminthic infections, and influenza. Tables with details on specific infections within each group and guidance for reducing travel-related health risks in the pregnant patient are presented.

Keywords: Travel; Zika; infectious diseases; malaria; pregnancy.