Approximately 30-50% of travelers experience some
physical problem while traveling to Asia, Africa, or Latin America
ESPECIALLY if they did not receive medical travel advice or immunizations.
Hepatitis A is the most frequently occurring
vaccine-preventable infection in travelers.
Few country requires vaccination for entry if arriving
from the United States. However, travelers require vaccination to
maintain good health while overseas.
Many people believe that they are not at a health risk if
they limit their trips to large cities, fine hotels and restaurants, and
visit only popular tourist sites. "First Class" may ensure comfort,
but it does not ensure protection against illness.
According to the World Health Organization, most cases of
hepatitis A occur in travelers who stay at "middle and upper level"
accommodations. Keep in mind that first class in Calcutta or Nairobi is
not necessarily the same as first class in New York or Las Vegas. Are
you at risk for hepatitis A? Check this map of where hepatitis A is
most prevalent and see.