Travelers should get vaccinated against respiratory viruses and other preventable diseases, says the CDA. Singaporean residents who travel abroad contributed to last year’s health concerns, with five people contracting malaria and 14 developing typhoid after overseas trips. As the year-end travel rush begins, the Communicable Diseases Agency urges holidaymakers to prioritize health by obtaining the necessary vaccines and medications before leaving the country.
The CDA recommends visiting a travel health clinic four to six weeks before departure. This gives travelers tailored guidance on required or recommended vaccines and practical tips to stay healthy while abroad. “When people travel to nearby countries, the routine nature of the journey can make them overlook vaccines,” explained Associate Professor Lim Poh Lian, the CDA’s group director of communicable diseases programs. Busy schedules or last-minute travel deals can also lead to overlooked vaccination plans.
Malaria and typhoid cases tied to travel were reported last year: five malaria infections and 14 typhoid cases among Singapore residents. The CDA notes that malaria is spread by mosquitoes in areas with stagnant water, and that Singapore has been malaria-free since 1982. Vaccination is advised for travelers heading to certain parts of Asia, Africa, and South America. Typhoid, caused by a Salmonella bacterium, spreads through contaminated food or water and is more common in parts of South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Some destinations require yellow fever vaccination. Singapore is currently free of yellow fever, but in some regions it is mandatory, and a single-dose vaccine can provide lifelong protection. If unvaccinated travelers return to Singapore, they may face quarantine. The CDA highlighted ongoing efforts to prevent yellow fever introduction and spread within the country. High-risk zones include 27 African nations (e.g., Kenya, Uganda) and 13 Latin American countries (including Brazil and Colombia). The World Health Organization warns that international spread remains a global health security concern. Assoc Prof Lim emphasized the importance of checking yellow fever requirements before travel to avoid quarantine upon return.
In addition to disease vaccines, protecting against respiratory infections is important during travel and festive gatherings. The northern hemisphere’s flu season coincides with winter, and even short layovers can increase exposure to viruses. Crowded airports with travelers from multiple continents heighten the risk, even when visiting warmer destinations in the southern hemisphere. Vaccines that guard against respiratory viruses are worthwhile for these journeys.
To prepare for potential illness abroad, the CDA advises travelers to pack a compact medical kit with essentials such as a thermometer and antiseptic creams, readily available at local pharmacies. The agency is also expanding its website to provide more travel safety guidance, destination-specific health information, and entry requirements for travelers.
Source: CNA/lt(dn)
