Non-infectious Problems

Five non-infectious problems of travel are set out in this chapter. Not all of them need to be discussed with every traveller, but travel medicine practitioners need to be well acquainted with each. Section 6.1, Fitness to Fly, summarises some hazards of and contraindications to air travel. This section is relevant for travellers with special needs. Section 6.2, Motion Sickness, provides the necessary information to advise travellers who seek help with this sometimes distressing problem. Jet lag (Sect. 6.3) is a problem for many who cross several time zones and is worth discussing with those involved in important activities where alertness and a high level of functioning are crucial within the first few days after arrival. Venous thromboembolism (Sect. 6.4) should be discussed with all travellers who may be at increased risk. Altitude illness (Sect. 6.5) should be discussed with all travellers going to altitudes higher than 2500 m, and the table of altitudes of various destinations in this chapter can be useful.