A commander from the Justinian era leads his troops against the Goths.

Imagine a plague that infected millions in just a year, killing as many as 5,000 people per day. For the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire, this nightmare was a reality. Beginning in about 541 CE, the Plague of Justinian swept through Europe, killing up to a quarter of the Eastern Mediterranean population and possibly as much as 10 percent of the world’s population.

What Was The Plague of Justinian?

Despite the catchy name, the Plague of Justinian was identified as the bubonic plague, otherwise known for its 14th Century cousin, “The Black Death.” The disease earned its name from Justinian, the ruler of the Byzantine Empire at the time. It also has a double meaning, as Justinian’s handling of the crisis was almost its own form of infection.

As farmers and other workers were dying by the thousands, Justinian was unable to complete many of the projects he had started and began to raise taxes and change the tax code.

Procopius, a scholar of the time, explained:

“When pestilence swept through the whole known world and notably the Roman Empire, wiping out most of the farming community and of necessity leaving a trail of desolation in its wake, Justinian showed no mercy towards the ruined freeholders. Even then, he did not refrain from demanding the annual tax, not only the amount at which he assessed each individual, but also the amount for which his deceased neighbors were liable.”

What Were the Symptoms of the Plague?

We don’t know the exact symptoms of the Plague of Justinian. The current symptoms for bubonic plague include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Swollen or tender lymph nodes
• Abdominal pain
• Gangrene

Procopius described victims suffering from these and also other symptoms including:

• Delusions
• Nightmares
• Comas

He even said some would die almost immediately after the onset of symptoms. However, we don’t know how accurate his reporting was. Procopius said the plague was killing 10,000 people every day, but modern estimates put the daily death toll to closer to 5,000.

How and Where Did the Plague Spread?

Like the modern bubonic plague, scientists believe the Plague of Justinian spread through fleas. Studies indicate the plague may have originated in China or India and was then transported to the fertile valleys of Egypt through trade routes. In 541, the Egyptian port of Pelusium was the first city to document cases, and, by 542, cases were seen as far north as England.

Due to the nature of ancient records, we don’t know the full extent of the disease’s spread. We know the Mediterranean region was the hardest hit, but anecdotal evidence indicates some cases occurred in England, Germany and other northern regions.

What Effects Did the Plague Have?

Justinian wasn’t just a leader; he was also a conqueror. By 542, he had reconquered most of the Roman Empire’s previous domain and was hoping to solidify his rule. The plague made this all but impossible as farmers, soldiers and other key members of society fell ill and died from the disease.

By 568, Justinian’s empire began to crumble as the Lombards invaded Northern Italy, and, within a few generations, enemies were at the gates. Byzantium remained a power through 1453, but it would never be as large as it had been before the plague.

Could The Plague of Justinian Resurface?

Just as with many other ancient diseases, this question has been under investigation for years. A study conducted by Northern Arizona University found the Plague of Justinian came from a now extinct form of Y. pestis or bubonic plague. So in short, it is still around. But, we are unlikely to see anything like Justinian’s Plague or the Black Death in modern times.

“We’ve greatly improved hygiene since the times of the great pandemics,” said one researcher. “The other thing is we not have antibiotics, and plague is susceptible to every antibiotic.”

To learn more about bubonic plague, see the CDC portal. To learn more about other eradicated, or nearly eradicated diseases, see our polio and measles, mumps and rubella pages.

If you are planning a trip, especially one where you may come in contact with rodents, book an appointment at your local Passport Health by calling or booking online today.

What are your thoughts on this terrible plague? Let us know in the comments below, on Facebook or Twitter.

Everyone loves to travel. Trips provide new experiences, adventures, and memories that last a lifetime. Not only is travel fun; it provides a variety of surprising personal and health benefits. Studies show travel leads to a greater learning capacity, increased feeling of happiness and satisfaction, better family relationships, and even decreased risk of heart disease.

Is Travel Good For My Health?

Travel has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. A nine-year study of 12,000 men found that those who took at least one vacation per year were 30% less likely to die from heart disease. Another study showed individuals who didn’t take a vacation were twice as likely to have a heart attack.

Travel is also linked to a lower risk of depression. A 2005 study showed significantly decreased risk of depression among 15,000 women.

How Can I Stay Healthy While Traveling?

Travel is good for you for countless reasons, but to get the most out of your trip, staying healthy is a must! Make sure all your routine vaccinations are up-to-date including:

• TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
• Hepatitis A

Some destinations, especially international ones, may require specific travel-related vaccines. A travel health specialist can help you identify what vaccines are right for your trip. The most common vaccinations are:

• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever
• Polio

To learn more about what vaccines you may need for your upcoming trip, visit a Passport Health near you. Book online now or call us at .

Is Travel Good For My Mind?

Vacation and relaxation go hand-in-hand. Everyone needs time away from the office to rejuvenate. Studies show travel does reduce stress. It also improves our ability to handle stress long after we return home. Studies also show decreased stress in travelers had lower levels of stress hormones.

The benefits of travel and the resulting traveler’s high extend into the workplace as well. Employees who travel have lower rates of absenteeism, higher productivity levels, and generally report feeling less burnt out.

Travel is a learning experience. The new cultures, cuisines, sights, and sounds provide countless opportunities to experience and learn something new. Just being in another country increases the traveler’s knowledge and intercultural awareness.

Travel also helps students learn more. Studies show students who travel earn better grades than their peers who stay at home. These students also have stronger academic interests and more personal confidence. Students who travel abroad are almost twice as likely to complete a college degree.

Is Travel Good For My Relationships?

It’s common knowledge that travel helps to bring people together by building lifelong memories. Couples are strongly and positively affected by trips taken together. More than 75 percent of adults credit travel with improving their interpersonal relationships. Studies show family travel can also significantly reduce behavioral problems and illness in children.

Travel, with proper pre-trip planning and preventative measures, improves learning, happiness, relationships, and health. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip today!

Make sure you prepare for that trip as well. Passport Health clinics are conveniently located to serve you throughout North America. Schedule online or book by phone today by calling .

A South African safari is a wildlife enthusiast’s trip of a lifetime. Proper pre-travel medical care is crucial to be able to relax and enjoy the stunning landscape. While you’re out and about in the wilderness, the last thing you want to deal with is an unexpected illness. A pre-travel health consultation with vaccinations given by a travel health specialist will help to ensure your well-being during your safari and upon your return home.

Which Vaccinations for South Africa May I Need?

The exact shots for South Africa will depend on your personal health history and the location of your safari. The World Health Organization generally recommends the following vaccines:

• Yellow Fever
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Rabies
• Routine Vaccinations

Is Malaria In South Africa?

Malaria is present in South Africa and carries a fairly high risk in the northern parts of the country. Speak with a travel health specialist to learn more about whether you need antimalarials and what type is right for you.

According to the CDC, South Africa also has the following mosquito-borne diseases:

• Dengue Fever
• Chikungunya

Other Tips For Your South Africa Trip

Whether it is your first safari or you’re an experienced safari enthusiast, taking a little time to adequately prepare before your trip can help you have the best possible experience. These five tips will get you started on the South African safari you’ve been dreaming of enjoying.

1. Visit during the off-season- In South Africa, the off-season takes place in May through July. During this time of the year, the weather is cooler, prices are more affordable and the animal sightings are better. The more affordable prices during the South African winter months may allow you to stay in a more luxurious lodge or even spend a few extra days on your tour.
2. Choose a safari off the beaten path- Instead of going for the most popular areas, select a place that’s a little off the beaten path. With fewer people, you may have a better chance of up-close observation of the wildlife.
3. Slow down- In Canada and the United States, life is typically conducted at as fast a pace as possible. This is not the case in South Africa, and you shouldn’t be alarmed if your guide suddenly decides it’s time to take a three-hour nap or break for the day. Instead, take this opportunity to enjoy the scenery, and relax in the natural wonders that surround you.
4. Immerse yourself, but avoid traveler’s diarrhea- Traveler’s diarrhea is one of the most common ailments. Up to 80 percent of tourists will have some form of illness with this symptom. Avoid risky food choices and consider bringing a diarrhea remedy like DiaResQ.
5. Get a pre-travel health consultation and vaccines-– A visit with a Passport Health travel health specialist will help to ensure that you’re healthy and ready to go on safari. Schedule your travel health checkup six weeks before your departure date. This will allow your body to make antibodies after receiving recommended vaccinations. Our travel health specialist will also make recommendations for what you should pack for a healthy and safe trip. Your prescription and over-the-counter medications, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, mosquito netting, a first aid kit, a water purification kit, anti-diarrheal medication and pain relievers will all help you to stay well during your travels.

A pre-travel health consultation with a Passport Health travel health specialist will help you make sure you’re as healthy as possible as you depart for safari, during your adventure, and upon your return home. Getting your immunizations for South Africa will help protect against infections that could cause you to fall ill during your trip or upon your return home.

Have you traveled to South Africa? Have any awesome tips? Share them with us! In the comments below, on Twitter or through Facebook.

Preparing for a mission trip can be challenging for even the most experienced traveler. From handling funds to managing traveling with a group of other ministry participants, mission travel can be fraught with hiccups that general vacations just don’t have. Learn how to mitigate these issues and prepare for a successful and healthy mission trip.

Should I Receive Any Vaccines Before My Mission Trip?

Mission trips can occur just a few hours from home or they may be a continent away. Whether you or your group members will need vaccination depends on where you will be going and what you will be doing. If you are planning a trip outside of the United States, or if you plan to participate in an activity domestically where you may be exposed to an infection, you should be vaccinated.

Often, vaccination may be as simple as a TDaP (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) booster or another routine vaccine. However, these vaccinations could make the difference between a successful trip and a miserable ride home with a potentially deadly disease.

Protection is key, making vaccination the best option when preparing for your mission trip.

Are Vaccines Worth The Cost?

Vaccination may seem like just another cost for a mission trip, possibly even one that may be seen as unnecessary given that you want to be mindful all funds are directed towards helping those in need. But, going without immunization can lead to even more serious dangers and expenses.

Recent estimates suggest a travel illness can cost more than $500 per day per illness. If two members of a mission group fell ill for two days each, that’s possible as much as $2,000! Additionally, sick trip participants are not able to minister to those in need, and it is hard to put a value on that lost time.

Immunizations are often a fraction of the cost of post-exposure health care. In many ways, vaccines are like car insurance. Although you may not get in a fender bender (or come in contact with these infections), you should still be protected.

Which Vaccines Will I Need For My Mission Trip?

Every mission trip has its own unique characteristics that may require different vaccinations or medications. The following vaccines are generally recommended:

• Typhoid: A very common foodborne illness especially in the developing world. This vaccine will be recommended for most mission locations.
• Hepatitis A: Almost as common as typhoid, hepatitis A is another foodborne disease. Hepatitis A can have chronic side effects, making it a very dangerous infection.
• Hepatitis B: Transferred through blood and other bodily fluids. If your group will be engaging in any kind of medical aid, this vaccine is a must.
• Routine Vaccinations: Many routine diseases such as measles and pertussis (whooping cough) are still present in developing countries, so make sure your missionaries are protected.
• Traveler’s Diarrhea Medication: Traveler’s diarrhea is the number one ailment among travelers. The various forms of infection affect nearly half of all travelers at some point. Be prepared with a traveler’s diarrhea kit which includes DiaResQ or another type of remedy.

A few other items that may be recommended are:

• Yellow Fever: A mosquito-borne disease seen in Africa and South America, yellow fever immunization is required for entry into more than twenty countries.
• Malaria: Antimalarial medication is a must if you are headed to an area where the disease is present. There are a few different medications that can be taken,and a travel nurse can help determine which is best for you.
• Japanese Encephalitis: This mosquito-borne disease is common in eastern Asia, especially China, Japan and the Philippines. Consider this vaccine if your mission will be in these areas.
• Rabies: For some, the rabies vaccine will be a must. If you will be in a rural area or working with animals, this immunization should be on your list.

Will I Need A Visa For My Mission?

Whether or not you will need a travel visa for your mission depends on a variety of factors. These include:

1. Where Am I Going?– Some countries require a visa to enter the country. In these cases there isn’t a choice; you will have to receive a visa.
2. What Will I Be Doing?– Various countries have different requirements based on what you may be doing there. For example, some nations may require a visa to proselytize but not to participate in charity work. Be sure to fully research where you will be going, and contact a Visa Services group like Passport Health to learn more.
   

3. How Long Will I Be Staying?– Length of stay is often a determining factor. Even neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico have maximum stay limits without a visa. If you are staying for more than 30 days in a region, you may need a visa. Check with the State Department or a Visa Specialist to learn more.

If your trip falls under any of these categories, contact Passport Health’s Passport and Visa Services to learn if you or your group will need a visa and how to obtain one.

Should I Go Through An Outside Service To Obtain A Mission Visa?

Choosing how to obtain visas or passports for an upcoming mission trip can be difficult. Often, submitting your own paperwork and following up with embassies and consulates directly seems like the best use of funds. But, that isn’t always the case.

Consulates are free to reject a visa application for any reason, and many require in-person delivery of documents. This means time and money spent in traveling to the nearest location in order to file paperwork and then hope everything is indeed filled out properly.

Many larger church organizations have in-house travel document teams whose sole job is to help missionaries and volunteers arrange for their travel. While this is a great resource, it may not be the position your group is in.

If you are part of a small- to mid-sized organization, Passport Health can become your one-stop-shop for passport, visa and travel health services. While these may seem like extra expenditures, it is money well spent as your missionaries will be able to arrive on time and stress-free, ready to help those in the area.

What Are My Best Options For Handling Mission Funds?

Handling mission funds isn’t an easy task. Often, this money has been set aside by church goers with the hope of it going to help those most in need. Because of that, it can be hard to choose to spend these funds on what some may see as secondary services. But, consider the following:

• Illness is the number one cause of emergency travel evacuation across the globe. Travel immunizations and medications will help ensure a mission trip is successful.
• Without proper documentation, it is impossible to enter some countries, including many of those most in need of aid. Having to re-file paperwork can be a serious additional cost, while having incorrect documents can end a mission before it starts. Make sure all participants have everything they need.
• Passport Health makes points one and two much easier. Whether your group has decided to band together and receive travel documents and immunizations at one time or do so separately, we are prepared to help make your mission as successful as possible.

To start your pre-travel preparations contact your local Passport Health by calling or booking online today. Group discounts are available. If you are traveling with a large group, please contact Passport Health’s account team at 1-888-986-8868.

To learn more about mission and volunteer travel, see our Mission, Volunteer and Adoption page.

Do you have any tips for individuals traveling on mission trips? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook or via Twitter.