Latent infections caused by Strongyloides sp. may become symptomatic years after initial exposure in endemic areas especially in specific contexts such as following administration of corticosteroids (for COVID-19 or other diseases). Heightened awareness of these reactivations and timely diagnosis may be critical to prevent complications and improve outcome.

Travel history is not always elicited on diagnosis of infections classically associated with acquisition in tropical areas. Alternate modes of transmission (such as sexual contact) should be considered. Travel history is essential for the diagnosis of specific imported diseases. However, ‘tropical diseases’ may also be diagnosed in patients who do not travel and other alternate risk factors should always be considered.