Plague
Plague is a zoonotic disease affecting mostly small animals and their fleas. The bacteria can also infect humans, through the bite of an infected flea. There are three types of plague; bubonic, pneumonic and septicaemic.
Risk areas:
Still endemic in many areas of Africa, former Soviet Union, the Americas and Asia. (WHO Factsheet no 267 – Revised Feb 2005)
Transmission:
Through the bite of an infected flea.
Symptoms:
Normally start with ‘flu’ like symptoms after an incubation period of 3-7 days. Generally the onset of fever, chills, body-aches and weakness are the first signs.
Vaccine:
Not available. Plague is generally treated through antibiotics which must be administered by a medical professional. Anybody suspected of having the plague must be hospitalised and isolated.
Quick Quote!
Annual
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Winter Sports
Dr Travel Tips
- When camping, reduce the chance of insect bites by wearing light coloured clothing and avoiding perfumes.
- This is on ‘oldy but a goody’: always pack a spare pair of clothes in you hand luggage just in ‘case’ the airline loses your other baggage.
- Before you travel you should call your bank and let them know where you are travelling and the dates of your trip to avoid bank card issues.
- Some tips seem obvious but return the best value, this is one. Always retain a cheery disposition wherever you are travelling, you will receive far greater service – a smile is multilingual.
- To save space in your luggage and reduce the weight should you be charged extra, take samples of toiletries rather than packing your large ‘home size’ containers.
