Infectious Diseases in Romania

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. They can spread, directly or indirectly, from one person to another. Some infectious diseases are transmitted by insects or other animals. Infectious diseases can also spread through the consumption of contaminated water or food or exposure to organisms in the environment.

The branch of medicine that focuses on infectious diseases is called infectiology, which is a subspecialty of internal medicine. Doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases are called infectious diseases (ID) specialists. While most common infections can be treated by general internists and other specialists, ID specialists are frequently called upon to help diagnose and assist in treating or managing unusual, difficult, or complicated infections. Since many infectious diseases are related to other medical conditions, ID specialists work with doctors in many specialty areas, such as doctors trained in dermatology, immunology, or cardiovascular medicine. 

Some of the most common infectious diseases that ID specialists diagnose, treat, and manage include:

• Bone and joint infections
• Heart valve infections
• Blastomycosis
• Complicated urinary tract infections
• Lyme disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Viral hepatitis
• Rubella, Measles, and Mumps
• Malaria
• Cholera
• Dengue
• Ebola
• Sepsis
• Tuberculosis
• Rheumatic fever
• Travel medicine
• Tick-borne infections
• Meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
• Post-operative infections.

There are numerous procedures that ID specialists and other specialists use to diagnose, prevent, and treat infectious diseases. These include, but are not limited to:

• Laboratory tests, including blood tests, urine tests, stool samples, throat swabs, and a spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
• Imaging scans, such as CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays.
• Biopsies.
• Antibiotic therapies
• Immunizations
• Infection control
• Fecal microbiota (stool) transplant
• Antimicrobial therapy (OPAT)
• Antifungal therapy
• Anti-parasitic therapy.

How Long Should I Stay in Romania?

Your length of stay depends on the severity of your infection and which organ is affected by the infection. Some types of infectious diseases may require hospitalization, while others do not. It is generally advisable that you plan to stay in Romania for at least 7 to 14 days. Even if you do not need hospitalization, some types of treatment may require several appointments. In addition, you may also need to attend follow-up checkups.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Recovery time after infectious disease can vary, depending on the type and severity of the infection. For some infectious diseases, the healing process can take time and it can take a few months until you can resume your normal activities. Some other types of infectious diseases, however, only need around 2 weeks or even less of recovery time. Your doctor will tell you when you can return to work and resume your normal activities.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your doctor will give you detailed aftercare instruction. It is important to follow every instruction closely. They may also tell you prevention measures to decrease the risk of infection from occurring in the future. These include washing your hands frequently, to get vaccinated, practice safe sex, travel wisely, stay home when ill, prepare food safely, and avoid sharing personal items. 

What's the Success Rate?

Active research in infectious diseases has resulted in new discoveries that help doctors to refine the treatment and management approach to infectious diseases. The success rate of infectious disease treatment has increased significantly in the past several decades. Some types of treatments even have 90% success rates.   

Are there Alternatives?

There are a number of products that have been studied for preventing or shortening the duration of some infections, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, garlic, ginseng, and zinc. However, it is best that you see your general physician, a specialist, or an ID specialist to treat your infection instead of taking alternative medicine.  

Infectious Diseases in and around Romania

Introduction

Situated at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, Romania is a country of contrasts. From its medieval towns and castles, nature, and wildlife, to its rich cultural heritage and amazing food, this country continues to amaze its visitors. In recent years, Romania has become a flourishing medical tourism destination. Due to its low prices, well-trained medical staff, highly skilled doctors, and amazing medical centers, the country attracts an ever-increasing number of international medical tourists. Dental work is the number one reason medical tourists travel to this country, closely followed by cosmetic surgeries. Most medical tourists come from other European countries, such as the UK, Germany, other Western European countries, and the US.

Popular Cities and Regions in Romania

Almost every city in Romania has its fair share of amazing tourist attractions and skilled specialists. The most popular one is the capital of the country, Bucharest. This dynamic city boasts excellent museums, trendy cafes, and beautiful parks. Tourists usually flock to the Palace of Parliament, the Statue of Emperor Trajan, Cişmigiu Garden, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the Museum of the Romanian Peasant. Besides Bucharest, one of the most popular cities in the country is Brasov which is located in Transylvania; tourists usually come to this city as their base for trips to “Dracula’s castle.” The city is filled with charming medieval streets, great hiking spots, and a beautiful historic center. The second-largest city in Romania, Cluj-Napoca, is also famous for its bohemian cafes, amazing medical centers, and music festivals. 

Transport in Romania

Henri Coandă International Airport is the busiest airport in Romania. It serves flights to various major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Getting around Romania with domestic flights is fast, but can be expensive. The most common way to travel is by bus and maxi taxi (minibus), which reaches even the smallest towns. 

Visas in Romania

While Romania is not yet part of the Schengen Area, the country’s visa policy is based on the Schengen acquis. Therefore, citizens of 62 countries, including the US and Australia, can visit and stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of other countries will need a visa to enter. Those who already have a Schengen visa may enter the country.

Weather in Romania

Spring from March to May has fairly mild temperatures and pleasant weather. Summer, starting from June to August, is usually dry, sunny and sweltering. Autumn comes in September and ends in November. It brings enjoyable temperatures, but it is also the rainy season in the country. Winter, from December to February, can get quite cold and harsh with frequent snowfall. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The currency is the Romanian leu (RON). 1 USD is approx. 4.7 RON.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs can be found in major cities and smaller towns. Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and hotels. Tipping is expected in restaurants, hotels, etc. 
3. Local Language: There are several spoken languages in Romania. However, Romanian is the most spoken language. English is also spoken by around 31% of the population.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Romania is a secular state with no state religion. However, Christianity is the biggest religion. Islam, Paganism, and other religions are also present.
5. Public Holidays: New Year’s Day, Descent of the Holy Spirit, National Day, and Christmas Day are some of the most celebrated public holidays.