Posted on June 17: McMaster researcher heads new tropical diseases clinic

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June 17, 2004

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Shariq_Haider.jpg” caption=”Shariq Haider”]Globetrotters who are looking for comprehensive care, before and after they travel, can seek advice from McMaster's Shariq Haider at Hamilton Health Sciences new International Health and Tropical Diseases Clinic.

Under the direction of Haider, the clinic sees patients before they travel to review their overall health, discuss the health risks of the region they're visiting and receive the shots they need to protect their health. If, when they return, they aren't feeling well, they can come back to the clinic for assessment and treatment.

Haider is an assistant professor of medicine at McMaster and a specialist in tropical medicine and infectious diseases. He knows the importance of continuity of care when it comes to today's exotic illnesses.

“Over and over again, research shows that people who receive pre-travel advice have better outcomes,” said Haider. “Our clinic can help travellers reduce their risks of getting sick and, if they do come down with something, we have the expertise to treat them quickly and effectively.”

Haider's personal expertise is considerable, as is his passion for international health. He was born in Pakistan, raised in Africa and educated in Canada and England. “Living in so many different places, I developed an appreciation for diversity and an interest in this field of medicine,” he said.

He shares that interest with specialists who are completing fellowships in infectious diseases at McMaster University. The International Health and Tropical Diseases Clinic gives those fellows the critical experience they need in travel medicine. Previously, they had to move to Toronto for that part of their training. The clinic also enhances the hospital's and the university's opportunities for research related to tropical medicine.

The service provided by the International Health and Tropical Diseases Clinic is not covered by OHIP and patients must pay a one-time fee of $135 in addition to the cost of vaccinations. The clinic runs Thursday mornings in 3V3 at McMaster University Medical Centre. In some cases, family physicians refer patients to the clinic. In other cases, patients book their own appointments. Ideally, initial appointments should be made about six months prior to any trip. To book an appointment, call 905-521-2100 ext. 75051.