Infectious Diseases being spread by International Travel

Duke TIP Pharmacology students visited the CDC in Atlanta. Mosquitos, such as this one in the exhibit, transmit malaria.

By Paxton Swisher
M&M TIPster

It is not a common thought when we board a plane. With all the stress of airports we scarcely have time to consider the risk. But what is becoming a new problem is the spread of infectious diseases through international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control recorded more than 3000 cases of infectious diseases in travelers in just the past year. According to USA Today, in the last year, there were 662 reports of tuberculosis, 78 cases of measles, and 56 reports of mumps. Diseases from other countries are carried onto the plane. Then, people who aren’t being very hygienic get the disease because they aren’t immune to it. The disease is then spread to others in the area.
Those in Athens that disregard this information because they don’t travel internationally should consider this: according to cheapflights.com, Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International has been the busiest airport in the world since 1998. This means that hundreds of international flights come in to Georgia every year. If infectious diseases are being transferred from airport and planes there is a risk for many Athens residents. However, there are ways to combat the spreading of these diseases.
As in any public place, it is always a good idea to wash your hands. Hand sanitizers can be of great help on air planes. General health rules should be followed, such as not sharing any food or drink with others, and covering your face when coughing/sneezing. If you feel the need, germ-masks can also be a good way to protect your mouth and nose from germs. The main way to protect yourself, however, is to be aware of the environment you are in. Know that people from other countries can have diseases you are not immune to. Above all else, wash your hands!

Paxton Swisher, 15, is a sophomore at Parish Episcopal School in Dallas, Texas.