Posted on July 2, 2002 at 11:45 a.m.

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Some travel experts predict an increase in domestic travel this summer, particularly in the wake of 9/11 and heightened global unrest. But travel medicine specialist David Freedman, M.D., director of UAB Travelers' Health Clinic, says even though the United States and Canada are developed countries, there are still potential health risks for outdoor adventure travelers.

Risks include encounters with wildlife (bear, cougar and moose) and potential infection with leptospirosis or giardia. Giardia, an intestinal illness caused by infection with the parasite Giardia lamblia, is acquired after ingestion of contaminated lake or stream water. Leptospires can penetrate intact skin after contact with water contaminated by urine of rats or dogs. Freedman said travelers at particular risk include hikers, bikers, swimmers and rafters who may get splashed when passing through puddles, streams or lakes.

Visit the UAB Travelers’ Health Clinic Web site at start.tripprep.com/uabtraveldoc.