This year, June marks one of the most important international holy times: Ramadan. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar marks a time of fasting and prayer throughout the Islamic world and provides amazing opportunities, and occasional difficulties, for travelers in the Middle East and other Islamic regions.

Ramadan marks the month when the Islamic holy book, the Qur’an, was revealed to the prophet Muhammed. Many consider this month even more important because of the added blessings that are believed to be bestowed upon adherents for fasting and doing good deeds toward others.

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Influenza, Ebola, malaria, measles; all of these infections have unique and important names.  But, where do they come from? To paraphrase the Bard, “What’s in a name? / that which we call the flu / By any other name would still stink.”

When it comes to viruses, a name can be extremely important. Many are named for what they do.  Chickenpox is believed to have been named for either its root giccan, a Latin word meaning to itch which could be confused with chicken.  However, many scholars believe it derives its name from the pox marks themselves, considering that the word used for the disease in many Arab countries is hummus and in Spain, garbanzo, both of which are associated with chickpeas.
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Recent news has some individuals questioning the possibility of an anthrax outbreak in the United States. Currently, this is highly unlikely. However, were one to occur, Passport Health has anthrax vaccine available for those who may require it.

“The likelihood of an anthrax outbreak is extremely low,” said Victoria Sowards, Director of Nursing Resources for Passport Health. “While it is a serious illness, it is only spread through coming in contact with the spores, not person to person. Despite popular belief, it is very hard to come in contact with, and, while potentially fatal, anthrax generally has a low mortality rate unless inhaled.”

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An antibiotic resistant strain of typhoid has been slowly spreading throughout Asia and Africa over the last 30 years, but a new study shows this strain is close to reaching epidemic levels in some African countries.  While this is concerning, the same research shows that preventing the disease is as easy as getting a typhoid vaccination.

The study, published in Nature Genetics, showed the multidrug-resistant strain of typhoid, called H58, can easily stand up to many of the primary antibiotics used in fighting typhoid.  Worse yet, H58 is continuing to develop immunities against other drugs used to fight the bacterial disease.
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Whether you are actively considering retiring abroad or just starting to explore your options, there is no doubt that moving to another country can be thrilling. The new locale, culture, atmosphere and popular activities of another nation will bring out an adventurous streak in anyone. If you have plans to retire abroad, you are not alone. According to a Travel Market Report, more than 3 million North Americans are actively interested in retiring to another country. Overseas living can save you money while you start this exciting new chapter of your life.

Does a tropical destination or an urban city draw your interest? International living can be a great choice for retirees, but safeguarding one’s health is important regardless of where one resides. Before you go, make sure you have researched your country’s healthcare system, insurance plans and providers, and have an updated immunization record. Some destinations may have certain diseases that are uncommon in the U.S. However, with the proper precautions, retiring abroad can be relaxing and exhilarating and be the right choice for you! Keep reading to learn more about the top destinations for retiring abroad and some of their common health concerns.

Mexico

Mexico is a popular place to retire. Properties are affordable, and communities of other American retirees are common in the cities of Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel del Allende. Make sure to have the hepatitis A vaccine if you plan on living here. Viral outbreaks are not uncommon in Mexico and are usually caused by contaminated water or food, making vaccination even more important.

Mosquitos are an issue in many regions of Mexico. The small insects can infect travelers with malaria or chikungunya, diseases that can be life threatening. Be sure to avoid mosquitos whenever possible, and use proper mosquito repellants and antimalarials if needed.  Mexico also requires a yellow fever vaccination if returning to the country after travel to a nation that is affected by the mosquito-borne disease. If you plan on traveling to nations like Brazil or Peru, it would be advisable for most people to receive an immunization.

Ecuador

Great weather, stunning scenery and welcoming locals make Ecuador a very popular destination for retirees. Affordable living in the city of Cuenca, which has a large English-speaking population, coupled with a great private healthcare system makes Ecuador a favorite for many retirees.

In addition to routine vaccinations, typhoid, and Hepatitis A vaccinations, the CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador receive the yellow fever vaccine as the risk of contracting this disease is greater in some parts of this South American country.  Antimalarial medications may also be suggested.  Schedule an appointment at a Passport Health travel clinic to learn more about these potential risks.

Europe

European countries are popular vacation destinations for many individuals throughout their lives. Unlike many other regions, almost all of Europe if fully developed with few health or medical issues in the continent as a whole. Generally, European countries have very high standards of medical care and have very few endemic diseases.

Recently, measles, mumps and influenza outbreaks, however, have highlighted the importance of routine vaccinations if traveling to or living in Europe, especially in regions where vaccination rates have declined. However, hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for some regions, especially in Eastern Europe where some sanitation standards are not yet ideal.

Malaysia

A booming economy and warm temperatures are just some of the reasons retirees love this Asian country. The healthcare system is reputable, and almost all physicians speak English or have been trained in an English-speaking country. The infrastructure and amenities are top notch, and there is much to do for the adventurous at heart in this beautiful country.

Make sure you have updated your routine vaccinations if you plan on retiring here. Malaysia has many mosquitos and the greatest risks are contracting dengue fever and malaria. If you are planning on retiring to this tropical nation, a Japanese encephalitis vaccine would be recommended especially if planning on living or traveling to rural areas.

Thailand

The attraction of settling down in an Asian country continues to appeal to Americans, with English communities growing in cities like Bangkok or resort towns, such as Phuket. Thailand has authentic Asian cuisine, and the culture has many North American influences.

Make sure to have your typical routine vaccinations updated if traveling to Thailand. Japanese encephalitis and yellow fever vaccinations may be recommended depending on what you plan on doing while in the country such as going to rural areas or traveling to nations that have endemic yellow fever.  Malaria medication may also be recommended.  Be sure to speak with a Passport Health travel specialist about what may or may not be right for you.

With numerous exciting options for retiring abroad, make sure to schedule time to discuss your health options with a Passport Health travel medicine specialist. Visit your nearest travel clinic and receive all the proper vaccines and information you need to enjoy your stay in these countries!

Have you lived in any of these aforementioned countries? What did you think? Let us know in the comments section below or via our Facebook or Twitter pages!