engleski

Health risks for travelers to Croatia

INTROUDCTION: International tourist arrivals significantly increased over the past ten years in Croatia reaching 15 594 157 arrivals and 78 049 852 overnight staysin commercial accommodation facilities in 2016 (92% foreign tourists). In order to contribute to a more accurate and adequate Pre-travel advice, we evaluated the health risks for travelers visiting the country as well as availability of health care facilities. METHODS: We performed a systematic review of the currently available epidemiological data, outbreak reports and surveillance data to assess the frequency of vaccine-preventable diseases, blood- borne and sexually transmitted infections, zoonosis, vector- borne diseases and other potential risks for travelers to Croatia. RESULTS: The Childhood Vaccination Program in Croatia is based on mandatory vaccinations that are purchased by the state free of charge with vaccination coverage between 93-98%. In 2015, there was an outbreak of measles with 200 cases reported. Croatia has a low- level HIV epidemic, with signs of an increasing trend in new diagnoses, especially in MSM population. The estimated HBV seroprevalence is 0, 7%, HCV is 0.9%, HEV seroprevalence approx 5.6%. Hepatitis A incidence is 1/100 000. The last autochthonous case of human rabies was recorded in 1964, and there were two imported cases of rabies (1989 and 1996). Oral vaccination of foxes was introduced in 2010. The last positive fox was detected in 2015. Over the past two decades, all typhoid fever cases were imported. Northern part of Croatia is a natural focus of the Tick-Borne Encephalitis, as well as Lyme disease. Outbreaks of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, hantavirus infection occur periodically in forested parts of continental Croatia and this year we are facing an epidemic with more than 200 cases. CONCLUSION: Due to current epidemiological data, health information and recommendations for travelers visiting Croatia, need to be updated.

Health, risks, travelers, Croatia

nije evidentirano