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Going abroad this summer? How to prevent sickness and injury

Going abroad this summer? How to prevent sickness and injury

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Traveling abroad doesn’t always go as planned, so it’s a good idea to expect the unexpected by packing and planning your trip so you can avoid illness and injuries. After all, getting treated at an international hospital is not always ideal and presents certain risks.

Here are quick ways to plan your trip so you can stay healthy and enjoy your journey to the fullest:

Condition your body

If you know you’re headed somewhere that’s hot and humid or at high altitude, work to condition your body for what lies ahead. Exercise regularly and train your body for any adverse conditions you’ll be experiencing. It’s also a good idea to travel in a healthy state, making you less likely to encounter illness and injury en route.

Obtain the necessary vaccines

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends routine vaccines, as well as any specific ones for certain parts of the world. Many vaccines take time to become effective, so visit with your primary care provider and make a to-do list of things to get done before you travel. The CDC’s resources for travelers page is also full of useful information.

Pack appropriately

Make a small medical/first-aid kit to take with you at all times. This kit should include:

  • Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes
  • Adhesive bandages
  • Moleskin for blisters
  • Sunscreen
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Any necessary prescriptions
  • Pepto Bismol tablets or some other form of bismuth subsalicylate
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Altitude sickness medication (if applicable)
  • Bug spray
  • Water purifying tablets
Before leaving, you should do plenty of research on the destination and particular risks to watch out for and then pack your clothing accordingly. An example of this could include packing plenty of lightweight but long-sleeved clothing to protect against malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Check your current health insurance policy

Some policies cover more than others, but most people find that the only “catch-all” comes with investing in some form of traveler’s insurance. Only visit hospitals or clinics that you feel good about, and carry a copy of your medical history with you in case of emergencies. Taking these simple steps can prevent a lot of hassle should something go awry — not to mention helping you avoid a whopping international bill as well.

Stay hydrated with clean water

In many parts of the world, it’s probably best to stick with bottled water and other sealed drinks. If you drink something made locally, stick to hot drinks where the water has been boiled. You can also bring purifying tablets or water filtration system to ensure the quality of your drinking water. Above all else, stay hydrated and cover up to protect from the sun and insects.

Eat with care

Eating abroad has its benefits and risks, especially since about 25 percent of international travelers experience some kind of gastrointestinal distress within the first two weeks of their trip. To avoid the ever-dreaded “traveler's diarrhea” that is so prevalent among travelers, take steps to avoid suspicious foods that may have been improperly prepared. Consume only peeled fruit and fully cooked meats, and always be sure to start your trip with lighter fare before working up to the heavier dishes. The CDC offers a mobile app called “Can I Eat This?” to help you judge what’s good and what’s not on your trip.

Be wise

Many people take a vacation and end up making foolish decisions simply because they’re “on vacation.” Don’t make this mistake and end up in an urgent care clinic halfway across the world, having to cut your trip short. Instead, act the same way you would at home. Use protective gear when necessary and always wear a seat belt during automobile travel.

Whether at home or abroad, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And, if you happen to encounter serious injury at home, contact Robert J. DeBry and Associates to help you obtain a fair outcome.

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