Traveling can be deadly.
New research from Get Going, a travel medical insurance provider, has uncovered which illnesses you are most likely to contract when visiting popular destinations. This research study focused on five of the most “dangerous” countries and what exactly to look out for when visiting them.
Without further ado, and also I’m sorry, here are the top five nations you’re most likely to get sick in:
India
There is no easy way to say this–a lot of people get traveler’s diarrhea when they visit India. So many people get it, in fact, that it even has a local nickname: Delhi Belly. Other sicknesses to look out for here are typhoid and hepatitis A (due to some areas having an issue with poor sanitation).
INSIDER TIPAvoid drinking water straight from the tap, and stick to sealed water bottles. It is also advised to avoid using ice in beverages. Always avoid undercooked meat. Beware of washed vegetables, like salads. Only eat fruit with a peel.
Kenya
Kenya is a popular tourist spot, and unfortunately, it’s also a popular place to contract one of five specific diseases. Malaria, dengue, typhoid, traveler’s diarrhea, and hepatitis A are all common here.
INSIDER TIPWear insect repellent at all times. Malaria, in particular, is transmitted through mosquito bites and therefore it is important to protect your skin using an insect repellant containing DEET–which will keep fleas, bugs, and mosquitos away.
Thailand
Thailand is an extremely popular tourism hotspot, but travelers are warned to beware of–once again–traveler’s diarrhea, which is rampant in the region.
INSIDER TIPWash. Your. Hands. Specifically, wash your hands before eating and always after handling money.
Peru
According to Get Going, Peru is the most dangerous part of South America as far as disease-risk is concerned. Both Dengue and Typhoid Fever are common in this region.
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INSIDER TIPUse insect repellent at all times, as Dengue Fever is transmitted via mosquito. Typhoid is caused by the ingestion of contaminated food and water, so be careful of what you put in your mouth.
Indonesia
The most common disease contracted in Indonesia is Hepatitis A, which causes liver inflammation and is transmitted through food and water contaminated by… well, it’s contaminated by human feces, usually. Sorry. This isn’t fun for me to tell you! It’s also caused by fecal-oral contact (like dirty hands preparing food) with someone who already has it.
INSIDER TIPJust make sure you know what you’re eating and don’t take any chances. Also, as a general note, make sure that all of your vaccinations are up to date before traveling (to any nation, really).
Take precautions, be aware, and travel safely. These are five incredible nations you definitely shouldn’t stop traveling to–it’s just important that you prepare yourself beforehand and be smart while visiting. Stay healthy, friends.