Traveling can be exciting, but it also comes with some risks—especially for those new to international trips.
If you’re headed out on a big adventure, it’s essential to keep your health in check so that your dream vacation doesn’t turn into a disaster. Here’s the lowdown on preventing common travel illnesses and keeping your trip smooth.
Do I Need Vaccines Before Traveling?
One of the most critical steps you can take before traveling is ensuring you’re up-to-date on your vaccines. But, how do you know which vaccines you need? Depending on where you’re headed, certain vaccines might be required or recommended.
Some vaccines you may need include:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
- Malaria prevention medication (this isn’t a vaccine, but it’s crucial)
Don’t wait until the last minute to get vaccinated! Most vaccines take time to become effective, and some require multiple doses over several weeks.
How Can I Avoid Foodborne Illnesses?
Travelers often underestimate how easy it is to get sick from food and water in a foreign country. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a big city or a rural village—foodborne illnesses can happen anywhere. When you’re not used to the local bacteria or food handling practices, it’s easy for your stomach to take a hit. But with a few simple steps, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting sick.
- Stick to bottled water. Even if the locals drink tap water, your stomach might not handle it well.
- Avoid street food, unless you’re sure it’s safe. A lot of street food is amazing… but it can also be risky.
- Peel fruits and veggies yourself, or make sure they’re thoroughly washed in clean water.
- Stay away from undercooked meats. It’s just not worth the risk.
If you’re traveling to an area known for unsafe drinking water, consider packing water purification tablets or a portable water filter.
What About Mosquito-Borne Illnesses?
Malaria, dengue, and Zika are all mosquito-borne diseases that can seriously mess up your travel plans (and your health). These diseases are more common in tropical and subtropical regions, so if you’re heading somewhere warm, mosquitoes might be a bigger problem than you realize. But with the right precautions, you can minimize your exposure.
Many travelers prefer to speak with a travel doctor for anti-malarial medication. It’s not always necessary, but in some countries, it’s strongly recommended. Runway Health (RunwayHealth.com) is a company that can offer this:
Also consider insect repellent. Use one with at least 20-30% DEET or an alternative like picaridin. Mosquito nets, especially if you’re sleeping in rural areas, are a good idea too. Also, wearing long sleeves and pants in the evenings can help reduce bites.
How Do I Avoid Traveler’s Diarrhea?
One of the most common illnesses for travelers, especially those heading to developing countries, is traveler’s diarrhea. It’s not fun, and it can totally ruin your day (or even your week). It’s typically caused by bacteria or parasites in contaminated food or water, but there are ways to prevent it.
The first step is practicing good hygiene. Always wash your hands before eating, and carry hand sanitizer with you when soap and water aren’t available. Be mindful of where you eat and drink. Stick to places that look clean, and avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially seafood.
You should also pack over-the-counter remedies like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol. If you do get traveler’s diarrhea, these can help manage symptoms until your body recovers. In some cases, you might need antibiotics, but that’s something to discuss with your doctor before you leave.
Quick Tips for Staying Healthy
When it comes to staying healthy during your travels, it’s all about preparation and awareness. Here are a few quick tips that can help you stay on track:
- Stay hydrated – but remember, stick to bottled water if the tap water isn’t safe.
- Get plenty of rest. It’s tempting to pack your schedule with activities, but over-exhaustion can weaken your immune system.
- Wear sunscreen. Sunburns can not only ruin your trip but can also lead to long-term skin damage.
Final Thoughts on Staying Healthy While Traveling
The best way to avoid travel illnesses is to be prepared before you even leave. That means staying up-to-date on vaccines, packing a solid first-aid kit, and doing some research on the health risks in your destination. Don’t wait until you get sick to think about your health.
Traveling is a fantastic way to experience new cultures, but it’s no fun if you’re stuck in bed with a fever or worse… stuck in a hospital. Prevention is key, and with a little bit of extra effort, you can ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
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