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Common Health Problems Linked to Travel in Developing Countries

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Some of the most common health problems linked with travel to developing countries are:

  • Traveler's diarrhea. This is by far the most common risk. It affects up to 4 out of 5 international travelers, based on their destination.
  • Enterotoxic E. coli diarrhea.
  • Malaria.
  • Acute febrile respiratory tract infections.
  • Influenza.

Less common infections may also be a risk in certain areas. Some are related to sexual contact with an infected person. Less common infections include:

  • Hepatitis (A, B, and C).
  • Gonorrhea.
  • Animal bites with rabies.
  • Typhoid and paratyphoid fever.
  • HIV.
  • Legionella.
  • Cholera.
  • Meningococcal disease.
  • Dengue fever.
  • Prion diseases.
  • Yellow fever.
  • Tuberculosis.
  • SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome).
  • Poliomyelitis.
  • COVID-19.

For the most current CDC travel advisories, visit the CDC Traveler's Health website.

Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN

Date Last Reviewed: 09/01/2025

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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