As against malaria, travelers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. You're sitting on the beach, enjoying the sunset when suddenly you feel the irritating nibble of a sand fly on your ankles. That's all it takes to bring on this disease, with devastating consequences. The internal form is more severe, causing fever, weight loss and an enlarged spleen or liver. Left untreated, leishmaniasis can be fatal.
Sand flies are silent, so it's wise to avoid sandy activities from dusk till dawn.
It's a steamy day in Manila just after a rainstorm. You're wading in a fresh water pool when a wily flatworm slips into your body through a cut in the sole of your bare foot. Unfortunately, it wastes no time finding refuge in your intestines. Fever, itchy rash, muscle pain, diarrhea and nausea soon ensue. If untreated, this parasite can permanently damage the liver, kidneys, bladder and intestines.