- Not surprisingly, AIDS is as prevalent in Europe as elsewhere in the developed world. Make sure you’re as cautious as you would be at home.

WARNING: For those going into the woods - especially in Scandinavia, Central and Eastern Europe, and Russia - be aware of a disease called tick encephalitis (encephalitis is a swelling of the brain). Since it is spread by ticks, take precautions against being bitten, such as long pants, bug repellent, something to cover your head, and so on. Before setting out into the woods, get local advice from a knowledgeable source about the danger in a particular area. There is a vaccine for this disease available in Europe, but not elsewhere. It’s probably worth getting if you’re planning a camping trip to a high-risk area.