Michelle Reesman, RN, Executive Director, Passport Health Colorado, says far too many international travelers, from business travelers to the more adventurous types, leave home without taking the basic steps she suggests below. “People need to put the same kind of preparation into their health as they do into their destination choice, passport acquisition or flight plans,” Reesman advises.

1) Get advice from a travel health professional. Four to six weeks before departure, consult a travel medicine specialist for the most up-to-date immunization, malaria recommendations and consultation. They can answer your questions and prepare you for a safe and healthy trip. It’s important to get your immunizations early, as some of the vaccines take time to effectively protect you.

2) Protect yourself from disease-bearing insects. Wear protective clothing and use products containing 20-30% DEET, the insect repellant permethrin and bed nets.

3) Never go barefoot, even on the beach.

4) Make sure your water is purified. Do not use tap water when brushing your teeth.

5) Consume only well-cooked food. Fruits and veggies? Peel it, boil it or forget it!

6) Pre-fill your prescriptions, they may not be available at your destination. Take extra in case your trip is extended. In some countries counterfeit medications can be a problem. Carry medications in their original packaging and pack in your carry-on luggage.

7) Don’t swim in rivers, lakes, ponds and streams. Well-chlorinated pools and salt water are usually considered safe.

Take a basic first aid kit. Include medications for pain relief, such as ibuprofen and Tylenol, topical preparations for minor skin wounds and infections, and medications for allergic reactions (Benadryl). Consider presumptive treatment (Imodium and an antibiotic) for traveler’s diarrhea. Discuss the appropriate antibiotics for your destination with a travel health specialist.

9) Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of medical problems among tourists. Avoid riding motorcycles or wear a helmet and don’t drink and drive. Wear a seatbelt and only travel during daylight hours.

10) Purchase travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation. Most medical insurance plans aren’t accepted when you travel internationally.

About Passport Health Colorado

Passport Health Colorado’s travel health professionals assess individual needs, prescribe and administer immunizations and medications, and discuss precautionary measures for dietary and recreational activities. Clients also receive the latest information of health risks and requirements for each destination on their itinerary. Passport Health Colorado uses a variety of resources including the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of
State so that it can stay abreast of the latest developments in travel medicine and safe travel. For more information, go to
http://www.passporthealthco.com.

Passport Health Colorado / PRNewswire