Staying safe over spring break

This weekend, many CU Buffs will be headed to various destinations around the globe for spring break. Students headed to Mexico should be aware of current travel advisories in country.

While Mexican tourism has increased recently, so have health hazards within the country.

Dengue fever, a flu-like illness that is carried by mosquitoes, has been on the rise.

In order to prevent dengue fever, it’s important to avoid contact with mosquitoes by wearing mosquito repellent, wearing a long-sleeved shirt, and sleeping in beds covered by nets. There is no vaccine for dengue so it’s important to try and prevent the disease from occurring as much as possible.

Symptoms of dengue include:
• Fever
• Headaches
• Muscular or bone pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash

Students should also be aware of other diseases that may be present in Mexico. These include:
• Hepatitis A and B
• Rabies
• Typhoid
• Malaria

College students should be conscious of the importance to avoid un-treated water, as this is the leading cause of illnesses in travelers.

Before going on spring break, students can visit local travel clinics to find out more information on country-specific health hazards. This is a useful way to find out what vaccines or medications a student may need before deciding to go to specific spring break destinations.

Students can also visit Wardenburg Health Center and speak with a travel nurse to find out more information.

Before going to Mexico, even to resort area such as Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Cozumel, students should have up-to-date adult immunizations.