Russian Travelers Warned: Skipping Safety Could Land You in the Hospital

A top Russian epidemiologist is sounding the alarm for tourists heading to Southeast Asia, warning that carefree habits are putting them at risk for serious illnesses. Academician Gennady Onishchenko, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, told the outlet "Abzats" that his compatriots are too casual about hygiene when traveling abroad.

"If you forced a German to drink water, he would check the documents ten times first," Onishchenko said. "But we drink straight from streams, anything we find." He highlighted that the love for vacations in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia increases the risk of importing dangerous diseases. Among the top threats: cholera, hepatitis, and a whole range of intestinal infections.

Onishchenko urged Russians to consider domestic vacations instead of overseas trips. He noted that many travelers ignore basic precautions, such as avoiding tap water and street food, which raises the odds of coming home with more than just souvenirs.

This is not the first time the academician has raised red flags. Earlier, he pointed to the cyclical nature of Ebola outbreaks, following a new flare-up in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He recommended that Russians steer clear of countries where infection rates are climbing. For now, the message is clear: a little caution goes a long way toward keeping your holiday memories happy—and healthy.