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[HEALTH] · Chile, Spain · 3 sources

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Summer health risks include gastroenteritis, otitis, and insect bites

Common health issues during the summer months include gastroenteritis, otitis, and diseases transmitted by insect bites. Experts note that high temperatures facilitate the proliferation of microorganisms in poorly preserved food, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal infections. Maintaining the cold chain is essential, particularly during travel and outdoor dining.

Aquatic activities contribute to an increase in external otitis, especially among children and adolescents, due to prolonged contact with water in pools or beaches. Proper ear drying after swimming is recommended to mitigate this risk.

Increased time spent in natural areas also raises exposure to mosquitoes and ticks. While the probability of infection from a tick bite may be low, monitoring for fever or skin lesions is advised. Additionally, mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, Zika, and yellow fever pose risks in certain environments. For travelers, seeking specialized medical consultations four to eight weeks before departure is recommended to manage vaccinations and prophylactic treatments.

Entities

Clinica Universidad de Navarra · Ministry of Health · Nerea Carrasco