You’ve spent a lot of time, energy, and money planning your trip. You want to get out, see the sights, and experience the culture. Your itinerary is jam-packed to make sure you’re making the most of every single day.
But disaster strikes, and you find yourself stuck in bed. Even if you do manage to drag yourself out, you spend the whole time feeling pained and queasy.
You want to live in the moment, but it’s hard when you’re struggling to keep down lunch.
Even worse, it seems serious, and you have to go to the hospital. You try your best to get the help you need, but the country’s healthcare system is a complete mystery.
And then there’s the cost to worry about.
The good news? There are a few simple things you can do to significantly reduce the risk of getting sick while you’re away. Because prevention truly is the best cure.
Understand the Risks
Research suggests that around 50% of international travelers experience some form of health issue, though exact numbers vary.
Many people get sick while traveling, with traveler’s diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues being the most common complaints.
This is most often caused by improperly prepared food or untreated water, changes in diet, dehydration, or stress. Symptoms usually only last a couple of days and do not require professional medical attention.
Some people either develop symptoms upon their return or experience much more serious issues, like malaria and other infectious diseases.
Such conditions usually require ongoing treatment and management, and can have long-term or life-long health impacts.
Consult the Experts
A suitably qualified health professional can help you understand the specific risks you face, based on your travel plans.
This could be your doctor, a travel health specialist, or other medical professionals qualified with advanced degrees obtained through DNP programs online or similar.
Where and when you’re going, and how long you will be there, will impact the preparations recommended. This could include being vaccinated against common infections, like hepatitis, typhoid, and yellow fever.
There may also be certain medications you should pack for your trip, including preventative treatments, like anti-malarials.
Most vaccinations don’t provide immediate protection and need a couple of weeks to start working. So, make sure you plan ahead and book your consultation for around 6 to 8 weeks before you’re scheduled to depart.
Do Your Research
Once your itinerary is locked in, you can work out the specific health concerns you need to be aware of.
Check the current health notices for the places you’ll be going and note the biggest risks.
Check if you’ll be able to drink the tap water. If you won’t, you’ll need to work out a filtration or purification system, or stick to bottled water.
If you’re going with the filtration or purification option, make sure you pack everything you’ll need (e.g., purification tablets).
If the areas you’re visiting are known for mosquito-borne diseases (malaria, Zika virus, Japanese encephalitis, etc.), pack accordingly.
Plan outfits that are loose-fitting, light-colored, and full coverage (both arms and legs). Take plenty of EPA-registered insect repellent and, if you’ll be exposed to the elements while sleeping, buy a mosquito net.
Prepare for the Worst
Traveling is unpredictable, and you can’t plan for every eventuality.
Instead, you should adopt a ‘harm minimisation’ approach, where you focus on reducing the potential damage if tragedy does strike.
Travel insurance may seem boring, expensive, and confusing, but it’s worth the investment. If you do get sick or injured, you’ll be glad you have it and can rest easy knowing you’re covered.
It can also protect you from the cost of other common travel issues, like flight delays and theft.
A first-aid kit is also a must. Basic supplies like bandages, adhesive tape, and pain relief can make your travels much more comfortable. They can also be literally lifesaving in the event of an accident.
Stay Vigilant
Maintain good hygiene while on the road. Wash your hands regularly and use sanitiser to protect yourself from germs.
Be especially germ-conscious when in enclosed and high-traffic places, like planes, malls, hotels, and busy tourist attractions.
Always be alert to the risk of untreated water, particularly where water quality is a concern. If you’re avoiding tap water, also be wary of ice in drinks and washed salads.
Use bottled water when brushing your teeth, and be careful not to swallow any water when you’re in the shower.
Be mindful of food preparation. Higher-end restaurants are usually safe, but street food that wasn’t cooked in front of you is risky. Everything must be cooked through properly, and, as a general rule, you should avoid raw produce.
Don’t Forget to Have Fun
It’s important to be aware of potential health risks, but don’t spend your trip stressing about getting sick.
The whole point of traveling overseas is to try new things, see new places, and expand your horizons.
Doing your research, adequately preparing, and making smart choices will allow you to do this while still staying safe.
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