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Common Health Problems Linked to Travel in Developing Countries

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: Barry Zingman MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Terri Koson DNP RN ACNP
Date Last Reviewed: 9/1/2025
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