PREVENT
Posted March 14, 2015
Few things ruin a vacation faster than getting sick, and it can be even more stressful if you're in a foreign country. You can't always avoid becoming ill, but there are some simple things you can do to reduce the possibility of illness while traveling out of the country.
#1 Prepare before you travel
Your first stop should be the CDC website. Then, if you haven't been out of the county in the past six months you should talk to your health care provider or visit a travel medicine provider. He or she can make individualized travel medicine recommendations based on your specific medical history, travel itinerary and planned activities abroad to minimize your risk of exposure to infection. You may need a series of pre-travel vaccinations based on your destination(s), planned activities and your current medical condition. Keep in mind that some vaccinations need time to work. Certain countries have required vaccinations and you may need proof of vaccination to enter the country. Check the CDC or WHO websites for a complete list of country requirements.
#2 Avoid tap water
You've heard it before, and it's true. Don't use water from the tap to drink or brush your teeth. Instead, use bottled water and avoid drinks made with ice. Used boiled water (boiled for at least 5 minutes) to mix baby formula. Canned or unopened bottled beverages and drinks made with boiled water (such as tea and coffee) are typically ok to drink.
#3 Foods to avoid
It's fun to try local delicacies, but it's possible to catch many infections by eating contaminated food. Under-cooked or raw foods in particular pose a significant risk for infections. Avoid the following:
#4 Prevent insect bites
Mosquitoes and other insects can transmit malaria and a number of other infections to people. To protect yourself wear insect repellent, trousers and long-sleeved shirts anytime you are outdoors (particularly at dusk) and don't wear perfume.
#5 Wash your hands
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Soap and water is the only way to remove some stool parasites.
#6 Pack these health essentials
Important items to bring with you include:
By following these tips, you and your family can return from your dream vacation as healthy as when you left. Safe travels!
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