Syphilis results from infection with the spirochete Treponema pallidum . Transmission of syphilis occurs most often through sexual contact. Mother-to-infant transmission also occurs, and infection via blood transfusion is possible. Although T. pallidum induces strong humoral and cell-mediated immune responses,…
Infections caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis are the most common of the bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Since 1995, genital chlamydial infections have been the most frequently reported bacterial infection in the United States; for gonorrhea, continued emergence…
Because sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are defined by their transmission from one person to another during sex, travel—with its attendant opportunities for new contacts—can facilitate the transmission of STIs in several ways. The number of international travelers has increased steadily…
Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease predominantly affecting skin and nerves. The nerve damage occurring in leprosy may result in deformity, disability, and social stigma, creating problems for patients and their families. The interaction between…
The leishmaniases are a group of chronic cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral diseases caused by infection with one of several species of the protozoan parasite Leishmania . Members of the genus Leishmania are obligate intracellular parasitic protozoa in the family Trypanosomatidae.…
Residents and travelers experience a variety of fungal infections of the skin. Many are not unique to the travel location, but the heat and humidity of the tropical environment increases susceptibility to these infections. In addition, inoculation with endemic fungal…
This chapter describes common infestations by ectoparasites, including mites, lice, ticks, creeping eruption (cutaneous larva migrans), maggots (myiasis), and jiggers (tungiasis). Waterborne swimmer's itch (cercarial dermatitis) and jellyfish, or cnidarian (“nye- dare -ee-uhn”), envenomation are also discussed. Living in close…
Acute skin reactions are often symptomatic and account for many of the skin-related complaints of travelers. Sunburn and other ultraviolet (UV) light reactions, bacterial infections, medication-related rashes, dermatitis, and insect bites and stings are all common. These occur with brief…
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Toxic seafoods are causative agents in a number of gastrointestinal and neurologic illnesses. Historically, these illnesses were seen mainly in specific geographic locations, associated with local seafood products and affecting local resident populations. However, that situation has now changed remarkably:…