Emory’s TravelWell Center assists travelers during coronavirus outbreak

As global infectious diseases such as the coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to be a major concern in the United States, it is important for travelers to know the resources available both before and after going abroad. Emory’s TravelWell Center has been a recognized leader in travel medicine and tropical diseases for 30 years, and offers vaccinations and various health services. The Center provides consultations prior to travel, post-travel care for those who acquire an infection, and physical exams required by international programs. TravelWell also actively collaborates with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), providing the most up-to-date health care.

Henry Wu, MD, senior physician at Emory’s School of Medicine and assistant professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases, discusses the Center’s work during the coronavirus outbreak and how travelers can protect themselves.

How is the Center assisting travelers returning home from China during the coronavirus outbreak?
We are working closely with colleagues across Emory Healthcare as we implement and adjust screening procedures for patients presenting to clinics and emergency departments. Furthermore, we assist in evaluating sick individuals who might be at risk for COVID-19 and other serious communicable diseases.

Before traveling abroad, what precautions should individuals take?
Depending on the destination, vaccinations might be recommended or required. Malaria prophylaxis can be very important in certain areas. Since outbreaks like COVID-19 can also be of concern, we encourage travelers to review CDC’s travel health notices and country profiles when planning a trip. A travel clinic can help sort all this out and provide other practical tips for staying healthy during your travels.

Post-trip, what steps should travelers take if they believe they are infected?
Travelers should call their physicians with any concerning symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other flu-like symptoms). If they were already advised to monitor their symptoms by health officials upon returning to the U.S., they should also contact the health department as directed.

What research and surveillance endeavors does TravelWell Center participate in?
We are active in public health surveillance, including two CDC funded systems: the Global TraveEpi Network, a nationwide network of travel clinics that monitor trends in U.S. travelers, and GeoSentinel, a global consortium of hospitals and clinics that tracks illnesses and outbreaks in travelers.

What do you find most meaningful about the work you do at the Center and Emory?
Globalization is changing all aspects of our lives. Although most of the changes are positive, it has increased risks of travel related infections and pandemics. I find these trends fascinating and challenging, and I am passionate about helping individuals and communities stay healthy in this age of connectivity.

What do Americans need to know about the coronavirus and the work the Center is doing?
Things are progressing so rapidly that it is difficult to predict how the outbreak will affect U.S. residents. Our team at Emory TravelWell Center is monitoring the situation and working closely with EHC, Georgia Department of Public Health, and CDC colleagues to keep our patients and community well.

To learn more about the resources available to travelers, visit the TravelWell Center website.