Travellers' risk behaviors and health problems: Post-travel follow up in two travel medicine centers in Italy

Abstract

Objectives: We examined the association between travellers' characteristics, compliance with pre-travel recommendations and health problems.

Methods: Volunteer travellers were enrolled and data collected using a questionnaire between 30-60 days after returning home. We analyzed the associations through bivariate and multivariate models.

Results: Of the 468 enrolled travelers, 68% consumed raw food and 81% food containing milk and/or eggs. 32% consumed street vendor food and 30% drinks containing ice. 24% used the recommended mechanical prophylaxis measures. 46% got sick during and/or after travel (gastrointestinal symptoms most frequently). Factors predisposing to health problems were female gender, youth/middle age, intermediate travel duration and profession. The American continent and staying in hostels and tents were significantly associated with febrile illness. Street vendor food was significantly associated with skin reactions.

Conclusions: Adherence to behavioral recommendations remains low. Travellers must be informed of health risks during and after travel.

Keywords: Dangerous behavior; Travel medicine; Travel-associated infectious diseases; Travel-related health problems; Travel-related illness.