Fever after summer travel abroad? Reasons not to overlook symptoms

As South Korea anticipates surpassing 30 million overseas travelers this year, health authorities are urging heightened vigilance against imported infectious diseases. Statistics from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) reveal a significant number of imported cases for mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue fever in 2025, with malaria also showing domestic cases.

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Travel is a health management cycle that connects preparation before departure with checks after returning.

Experts emphasize that travelers often dismiss post-vacation symptoms as mere fatigue, delaying crucial diagnosis. Dr. Lim Dae-jong of KH Korea Health Management Association stresses the importance of a continuous health management cycle, including pre-travel vaccinations and post-return check-ups. He advises travelers to get vaccinated according to their destination and to seek medical attention for any seemingly minor symptoms upon returning home.

Preventive measures include vaccinations administered at least two months before departure, with malaria medication requiring a prescription and a 1-2 week head start. Yellow fever vaccinations are needed 10-14 days prior to travel to endemic areas. Other recommended vaccinations include cholera, hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus, with special consultations advised for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions.

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Recently, as overseas travelers have increased, cases of exposure to infectious diseases abroad without vaccinations are also increasing.

During travel, basic hygiene practices such as washing hands for 30 seconds with soap, consuming only cooked food and clean water, and avoiding contact with wild animals are crucial. Upon returning, travelers experiencing fever, diarrhea, or vomiting should immediately contact the KDCA hotline (1339) and visit an infectious disease clinic, informing medical staff about their recent travel history. While most infections manifest within weeks, some can appear up to a year later.

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It is important to get vaccinated according to the country you are visiting before departure, and upon returning home, not to take even seemingly minor symptoms lightly and to get medical treatment.

Summer travel also presents risks of non-infectious ailments. Ear infections, epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (pink eye), bladder infections, and urinary tract infections are common. High patient numbers for external otitis are recorded in August, and persistent ear discomfort or vision issues warrant medical attention. Increased rates of urinary tract infections are also noted due to perspiration and prolonged dampness, with prompt urology consultation recommended for persistent symptoms.

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If symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, which are suspected infectious diseases, appear after returning home, report to the Disease Control and Prevention Agency Call Center (1339) and visit an infectious disease clinic or overseas travel clinic according to the guidance.