Traveling to a new place can be fun and exciting. It can also put you at risk for catching all kinds of bugs. Let’s face it: There’s nothing fun about getting sick anytime, much less on vacation. Luckily, you can take steps to reduce these risks. Here are some simple tips to prepare and stay healthy during your adventures abroad.
Before you go:
• Get vaccinated! Make an appointment to see your doctor or visit a travel health clinic at least six to eight weeks before you leave. Take the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s travel quiz to find out what vaccinations are recommended.
• Prepare a travel first-aid kit. Every traveler should bring a first-aid kit. Medicine and supplies are not always readily available. Check out CDC’s Healthy Travel Packing List. Get destination-specific tips when you download CDC’s TravWell app on your mobile device.
During your trip:
• Wash your hands. Prevent infections by scrubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Carry hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol content in case clean water is not available.
• Eat and drink safely. Be careful of food and water contamination. If you’re not sure the water is safe, avoid ice and drink from sealed bottles or cans. Use bottled water to brush your teeth too. Eat food that is cooked well and served hot. Follow this rule: “Boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it.”
• Protect yourself against bugs. Mosquitoes, lice, fleas, bed bugs and ticks can carry diseases, especially in tropical locations. CDC recommends using approved insect repellent, wearing clothes that cover your skin and using bug screens.
Happy travels!
Photo by RedCharlie, courtesy Unsplash
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