Health and safety problems and lack of information among international visitors backpacking through North Queensland

Abstract

Background: International visitors to tropical Australia may be exposed to health and safety problems. Because they are younger, stay longer and participate in more activities, backpackers have a greater exposure to such problems than other visitors. Method: The study's aim was to determine how many backpackers experience problems and lack health and safety information. Four hundred and thirty-one international visitors staying in a random sample of youth hostels and backpacker accommodation in Townsville were surveyed over the summer. Results: Sixty two percent experienced a health and safety problem, commonly, insect bites, sunburn, headaches, lacerations, coral cuts, ear infections and diarrhea. Seventeen percent resolved only with professional help. Only 54% of backpackers had been offered health and safety information prior to departure, mainly vaccination advice. Conclusion: The proportion of backpackers offered health and safety information about tropical Australia, and the breadth of that information, needs to be increased.