HIV-infected travelers: What should they avoid?

摘要

Because HIV-positive patients are at increased risk for a wide range of infections, they need to take special precautions when preparing to travel. Although travelers' diarrhea is common even in immunocompetent persons, HIV-infected persons are more likely to have severe episodes. They also may be at increased risk for complications associated with vector-borne infections, such as leishmaniasis and babesiosis; influenza; and fungal infections. Persons staying in resort hotels or on cruise ships and those using spa facilities are at increased risk for legionnaires disease. Another concern is leptospirosis, which is widespread in many tropical countries and is associated with water sports. Preventive measures for travelers include vaccinations; protection against insects; and avoidance of contaminated soil, dust, and bird roosts in areas where fungal pathogens are endemic. Patients also should have fluoroquinolone and macrolide antibiotics on hand for self-treatment of GI and respiratory infections.