Special Health Topics

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus, called SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV). SARS was first reported in Asia in February 2003. Over the next few months, the illness spread to more than two dozen countries in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia before the SARS global outbreak of 2003 was contained. This fact sheet gives basic information about the illness and what CDC has done to control SARS in the United States. To find out more about SARS, go to CDC's SARS website and WHO's SARS website.

2003-04 Avian Influenza Outbreak. An outbreak of avian influenza, more commonly known as bird flu, affected bird populations in countries throughout Asia. The outbreak is caused by the H5N1 subtype of influenza A. Human cases also have been reported.

In birds: Outbreaks of avian influenza A (H5N1) have been confirmed among poultry in Cambodia, China, Hong Kong (in a single peregrine falcon), Indonesia, Japan, Laos, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

In people: The outbreak of bird flu has resulted in human cases of H5N1 infection in Vietnam and Thailand. Deaths have been reported. At this time it is believed that these cases resulted from contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with excretions from infected birds. An investigation is ongoing to determine the source of human infections.

Visit the World Health Organization (WHO) website at www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/en for more information.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Even if you feel this issue doesn’t apply to you, please pay attention to this section. The Center for Disease Control has country-by-country information on prevalence to STDs and outbreaks, and how to protect yourself. No matter what the local circumstances, please consider practicing abstinence. Abstinence is truly the only fail-proof method of preventing STDs and accidental pregnancy. However, if you do choose to remain or become sexually active while abroad, use condoms. Birth control pills will not protect you from STDs. Take condoms with you, as what’s available overseas may be of questionable quality or difficult to find due to local customs.

Food and Water Safety Contaminated food and drink are the major sources of intestinal illness while traveling abroad. Food and beverages should be selected with care. In general, hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, and canned or bottled beverages may be considered safe to drink. Any raw or undercooked food could be contaminated. Salads, uncooked vegetables and fruit, unpasteurized milk and milk products, raw meat and shellfish often pose the greatest concern. Food that has been cooked and is still hot is generally safe. For more information on traveler’s health and safety, we recommend that you consult the Center for Disease Control website.