The flight, hotel and rental car are all booked, but have you planned for your health? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2005, 63.5 million Americans traveled outside the U.S.; 90% of these travelers returned home safely without any health concerns. While the majority of travelers do not experience a health emergency abroad, it is important to be prepared. According to the World Health Organization, “injuries are among the leading cause of preventable deaths in travelers.” With an increase in the amount of international travel among Americans, it is important that everyone consider precautions to protect their health.
Three important questions to ask yourself before you travel:
1. Have I researched the area I am traveling to?
- Travelers should familiarize themselves with their destinations, both to get the most enjoyment out of the visit and to avoid known dangers.
- It may also be helpful to learn what the local diet consists of.
2. Do I need to update any immunizations before I travel?
- Some countries have immunization requirements that are different from those of your country of origin.
- Make an appointment to see your doctor at least six weeks before you leave, as some vaccines take a few weeks to reach their highest protection.
3. Did I complete a personal health status assessment?
- A personal health status assessment includes thoroughly reviewing your own health status and becoming aware of your health risks. Don’t forget to consider food related allergies and practice how you will communicate this to food service providers.
Tips to help protect your health when traveling abroad:
- Leave room for a “Traveler’s Health Kit” in your suitcase. This kit was designed by the CDC and includes helpful tools to keep you and your family safe when traveling. Please view the Traveler’s Health Kit online for more information.
- Leave a copy of your itinerary with family members and friends. This allows others to know where you will be and for how long.
- Check your medical insurance policy for overseas coverage of both routine and emergency care. This is especially important for anyone remaining abroad for a prolonged period of time.
- Carry enough of all of your medicines in your carry-on luggage. Ask your doctor whether you should change your dosages if your eating and sleeping times will change at your destination. Take extra medicine with you in case your return trip is delayed.
- Register your trip with the State Department so they can contact you in case of an emergency. Please visit the State Department online for more information.
- Water sanitation systems vary from country to country. Consult with your physician regarding precautionary measures.
- Ask someone at the place you are staying where and how far emergency care is located.
Whether or not you are traveling to another country for volunteer, personal or work purposes, every trip can be a healthy trip if you follow these tips!
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mayo Clinic, World Health Organization, LifeWork Strategies, Inc., and Washington and Shady Grove Adventist Hospitals. The Health Tip of the Week is for educational purposes only. For additional information, consult your physician. Please feel free to copy and distribute this health resource.
