Perceptions of infection risks when traveling abroad: attitudes and practices of residents of metropolitan France, 2006.
Introduction - The significant increase in international travel exposes a growing portion of the French population to health risks—whether infectious or otherwise—that can sometimes differ greatly from those in France. Preventing these risks depends on travelers and the information they receive. Methods - A telephone survey on perceptions of infectious risks, attitudes, and practices was conducted among a randomly selected sample of the French population aged 18 to 79. Results - Among the 4,112 people surveyed, 48% had traveled abroad at least once in the past three years. More than half (53%) believe that the risk of contracting an infectious disease while traveling to a tropical country is high, and 75% believe it is advisable to consult a doctor before traveling. Malaria is the most frequently cited risk. Among travelers, 57% reported having sought information on preventive measures before a trip, with the proportion rising to 96% for malaria-endemic countries. Conclusion - The French population has a keen awareness of infectious risks while traveling and fears malaria and tropical diseases. The primary source of information on preventive measures is the doctor.
Author(s): Jeannel D, Lassel L, Dorleans F, Gautier A, Jauffret Roustide M
Publishing year: 2007
Pages: 221-4
Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2007, n° 25-26, p. 221-4
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