We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.

placeholder="Enter search term...">
Suitcase

Nontuberculous Mycobacterium Wound Infections in Medical Tourists

11 March 2014

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that, as of 21st February 2014, a total of nineteen cases of post-surgical wound infections with suspected nontuberculous Mycobacteria were identified in female patients who had undergone cosmetic surgical procedures in the Dominican Republic during March – November 2013. 

Sixteen cases were confirmed, and three were probable.  Of the sixteen confirmed cases, thirteen were Mycobacterium abscessus (a rapidly growing mycobacterium which exhibits a high degree of antibiotic resistance); two were M.fortuitum infections; and one is pending final speciation. No deaths were reported, however, fourteen were hospitalised, requiring corrective surgery and long courses of antibiotics.

The CDC has notified the Dominican public health authorities of the outbreak investigation and has recommended on-site assessment of infection control practices at all implicated clinics.

(Via MMWR - accessed 10/03/14)

Advice for Travellers

The risk associated with medical tourism varies depending on the area visited and the procedure performed. Travellers should consider the following factors:

  • Communication – receiving treatment in a facility where you do not speak the language fluently may increase the risk of misunderstandings about your care.
  • Hygiene standards vary; diseases such as hepatitis B and HIV can be transmitted though unsterile medical equipment.
  • Medication may be of poor quality or even counterfeit in some countries.
  • Antibiotic resistance is a global problem, and resistant bacteria may be more common in some countries than others.
  • Blood products may not be screened for blood borne infections.
  • Flying after surgery may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

 All surgical procedures carry a certain amount of risk. Medical tourists should be educated about the following risk management strategies:

  • Check the qualifications of the healthcare professionals that will be providing your care and the credentials of the healthcare facility where your procedure will be carried out.
  • Seek a consultation at least 4–6 weeks before the trip to discuss general information for healthy travel, specific risks related to the procedure and travel plans before and after procedure.
  • Obtain a written agreement with the healthcare provider and/or group arranging the trip. It should detail treatment, supplies and care covered by cost of trip.
  • Determine what legal actions may be taken if anything goes wrong with procedure.
  • If you do not speak the language, ascertain how you will communicate with the healthcare providers in advance of travel.
  • Take copies of pertinent medical records including pre-existing medical conditions, known allergies and any medications (including generic name, manufacturers name and dose).
  • Ensure you obtain copies of your medical records before you return home.

Resources

For further advice and information please refer to following links: