Health Risks and Population Movements Related to the Situation in the Maghreb, April 28, 2011

The potential risk of importing infectious diseases is not linked to migrant status. The risk of importation depends on the epidemiological situation in the country of origin, travel conditions, the length of stay in transit countries, and conditions in the host country—particularly regarding housing conditions (overcrowding, hygiene, sanitation, nutrition). The main concerns and areas of surveillance include: - The health status of these individuals upon arrival, particularly regarding chronic diseases; - Risks associated with travel and accommodation conditions (dehydration, malnutrition) or accommodation conditions in transit countries; - The risk of deteriorating health due to the precariousness of their situation (nutritional status, access to care, etc.); - Possible changes in the sociodemographic characteristics of refugees should the crisis persist or intensify (particularly an increase in the proportion of women and children). At this stage, no potential health threats related to the situation have been reported in Libya, Tunisia, or in accommodation centers in Europe. The risk of introducing diseases not currently present in France or Europe, linked to the mass arrival of Tunisian or Libyan refugees, is very low. This theoretical risk must also be put into perspective with the number of travelers visiting these countries each year, particularly tourists. (R.A.)

Publishing year: 2011

Pages: 8 p.

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