10 Jul #YouGo, Globetrotter
The world is wide open, isn’t it? Maybe you’re off somewhere for work, for fun or to see family. It’s amazing how globalized we are, and how easy it is to connect people and places. Due to the ease with which we can travel, we often forget to take the precautions to help us stay healthy while we go.
Trips can be enjoyable, but international travel in particular is often wearying and has its health risks. Business travel, where trips are often short with little time devoted to rest and recovery, can be particularly difficult. At Crossover Health, we view travel medicine as an integral part of preventive healthcare, just like healthy eating and your fitness, and we’re here to help you go safe.
Some travel related risks are equal opportunity dangers – garden-variety travel complaints such as jet lag or traveler’s diarrhea can really put a crimp in your business plans or zap your tourist zeal. Other threats may be worrisome if you have a specific travel destination, certain health conditions or take prescription medicine.
At Crossover Health, we view travel medicine as an integral part of preventive healthcare, just like diabetes and healthy living management. Some travel related illnesses can be life threatening and should not be taken lightly. Whether you were born in the United States or abroad, it is important to speak with your primary care provider to make sure you are taking all the necessary measures to travel well, and be as safe as possible.
So what are some steps you should take to travel well?
Step 1: Know before you go
We recommend a travel medicine appointments at least four to six weeks prior to a planned trip, particularly if you are traveling internationally. Your visit may include:
- Pre-travel counseling
- Review of your vaccination history
- Dispensing of appropriate vaccinations, and recommended medications and prescriptions • Discussions around destination-specific health issues and preventive care guidelines
- Information to minimize risk of minor illnesses and major medical emergencies
Step 2: While you’re there
- Stay aware of the health conditions you discussed and the preventive care guidelines we share with you.
- Make sure you have any medications or preventive drugs handy.
- Eat smart by drinking exclusively bottled water, eating peel-able fruits, avoiding salads, and eating cooked meals
- If you’re in an area with insect-borne hazards, wear long sleeve-clothing and apply a good DEET insect repellent
- Think twice about swimming in rivers and lakes because of water-borne bacteria and parasites
- Keep your medical and business travel assistance contacts with you at all times. Even when you are far away, your health center team is as close as secure messaging.
Step 3: Once you’re back
Particularly if you’ve traveled internationally, it’s a good idea to schedule a post-travel medical evaluation at Crossover Health for any concerns about something unwanted coming home with you. We will get you back on track.
You should also know that there are several great resources out there particularly through the CDC (Center for Disease Control). On the CDC website, you can choose your destination and several health recommendations are listed to help you prepare for your trip.
In the end, traveling well is all about the right knowledge and good judgment. We’ll help you acquire these so you can go, globetrotter.
No Comments