An Approach to Fever in the Returning Traveller

  • Garth K Brink South African Society of Travel Medicine
  • John Frean
  • Albie de Frey
Keywords: fever, returning traveller, malaria,

Abstract

The traveller who presents with fever on return requires a comprehensive assessment. This paper outlines the salient features in assessing these patients. A detailed history, examination and knowledge of diseases prevalent in the areas that were visited is essential if one is to arrive at a diagnosis and institute appropriate treatment or referral. Malaria remains the first differential diagnosis in travellers returning from an endemic area irrespective of precautions taken. The most common illnesses that result in a fever in travellers are presented and a resource list is provided.

Author Biographies

Garth K Brink, South African Society of Travel Medicine
MBChB, FCFP (SA), MPraxMed
John Frean
MBBCh, MMed (Path), DTM&H, FFTM RCPS (Glasgow). Divisional Head, Microbiology Reference Units, National Institute for Communicable Diseases and University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Albie de Frey
MBBCh, DA (SA), Dip PEC (SA), Dip Trav Med (Glasgow), FFTM RECPS (Glasgow). Travel Health Consultant, Worldwide Travel Medical Consultants; Senior Honorary Lecturer, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Published
2008-01-29
Issue
Vol 50, No 1 - January/February 2008
Section
CPD
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