Infectious diseases and extreme sports

Abstract

Adventure travel has led to an increasing risk for contact with pathogens uncommon in industrialized countries. Extreme sport athletes may be at increased risk because they often travel through poorer, rural areas of tropical and subtropical regions to reach their destinations. In addition, competitions can take place in extreme locations like jungles, mountains, or deserts. Infection with unusual organisms may occur through exposures to lakes, rivers, caves, and canyons, as well as insect vectors. Outbreaks of infections have been associated with caving, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, triathlons, and multisport races. Diseases like malaria, leptospirosis, myiasis, schistosomiasis, tickborne rickettsial diseases, and rabies occurred or are a potential hazard for extreme sport athletes. The lack of immediate medical care can complicate and worsen the severity of these diseases. Physicians caring for extreme sport competitors must take a careful travel and exposure history and have a high index of suspicion for unusual diseases. To reduce the risk of illness or injury, knowledge of potential risks before engaging in this activity is important. Extreme sport preparation needs to be carefully planned and executed, including vaccinations, prophylactic medications, and advice regarding safe conduct and behaviors.