[Medical problems of Israelis travelling to tropical countries].

Questionnaires were sent to 1500 Israelis who traveled overseas following evaluation and preparation in a travel advisory clinic. Of 517 who responded, 227 were males, and the mean age was 25 years. The most commonly encountered medical problems were insect bites (25%), diarrhea (67%), skin conditions (23%), high altitude problems (19%), tropical diseases (11%) and respiratory tract diseases (12%). Of the 476 who took antimalarial prophylaxis, there were possible side effects in 81 (17%). Insect repellents and water purification were used by 435 and 312 travelers, respectively, and condoms by 103. Young Israelis commonly tour for prolonged periods through Asia, Africa and Latin America, and often acquire a wide spectrum of medical diseases, both infectious and noninfectious. A program of professional consultation and immunization is important in the prevention of travel-related disease.