This post is by a guest blogger – Jason Harter.

5 Most Common Health Issues In Papua New Guinea And How To Avoid Them by Jason Harter.

Those that are traveling to or live in Papua New Guinea must be made aware of the fact that there are certain health problems that are common in this area of the world. While vaccinations can go far in protecting a person from contracting a variety of illnesses that are common in Papua New Guinea, a person must also be smart and cautious when coming into contact with other people because many diseases are transferred by human contact. There are a variety of diseases that plague Papua New Guinea, and this is a list of the top five.

1. HIV/AIDS. In recent years, Papua New Guinea has seen an increase in HIV/AIDS infection. The rise is worrisome especially because many people in Papua New Guinea are poor and do not have access to medications that help alleviate the symptoms of HIV/AIDS. It is mainly heterosexual people who are contracting this illness, but it can be avoided by practicing safe sex.

2. Malaria. Malaria is one of the more common diseases that plague Papua New Guinea. Malaria is spread by mosquito bites so a person needs to take certain precautions against getting bit by these pesky bugs. Wearing bug repellant at all times is essential in Papua New Guinea if a person wants to avoid contracting Malaria.

3. Cholera. Cholera is a big problem in Papua New Guinea. Cholera is transmitted through tainted water and food and it is quickly becoming an epidemic in Papua New Guinea. The best way to protect oneself from Cholera is by regular hand washing and practicing good hygiene. Also, it’s wise to only drink water from a trusted source.

4. Tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is another disease that is causing problems in Papua New Guinea. Much like Cholera, Tuberculosis is transmitted through tainted food and water. It is a highly contagious disease that can be transmitted by coming into contact with an infected person. In order to decrease the risk of contracting Tuberculosis, a person must be careful about what he or she eats and drinks.

5. Typhoid Fever. Typhoid Fever is yet another common health problem in Papua New Guinea. A person contracts Typhoid Fever through drinking water that is contaminated with human waste. It is highly contagious and often deadly. Much like some other common health problems in Papua New Guinea, Typhoid Fever can be avoided by drinking clean water.

Papua New Guinea suffers from many different common health problems. Because of limited access to proper health care and unsanitary living conditions, certain diseases run rampant through all parts of Papua New Guinea. If a person wants to stay healthy by avoiding the possibility of contracting a disease like one of the five listed above, he or she needs to take certain precautions. Since many common health problems in Papua New Guinea are caused by tainted food and water, it is wise to be cautious when eating and drinking. While there may be many common health problems in Papua New Guinea, many of them can be avoided.

 Author Jason Harter enjoys studying the lifestyle of Papua New Guinea and blogging. He is a contributing writer for travelinsurance.org.