Health - Wander the Planet .net

TRAVEL HEALTH TIPS

The most important preventative measure when travelling in less developed countries is to be meticulous with your own personal hygiene. Bacteria and other organisms can get carried into your mouth from utensils and your hands. Always wash your hands before eating and avoid putting your fingers anywhere near your mouth. Carrying around antibacterial wipes is a good idea.

The vaccinations you need will depend on exactly which countries you visit, how long you are there and often which regions within them you plan to travel through. Visit your doctor at least 6 weeks before you plan to travel to see which shots you'll need.

You should carry a small first aid kit with you containing at least the following: Aspirin, Imodium for diarrhoea, Antihistamines, Antiseptic, scissors, Calamine lotion for insect bites, various sizes of Band Aids, tweezers, a thermometer (non-Mercury), cold/flu tablets and throat lozenges, antibiotic ointment, moleskin for blisters, water purification tablets, sterile wraps and gauze, tape, pain relievers, rehydration salts, Dramamine for motion sickness, cotton balls and swabs.

If you are backpacking the chances are you will pass through a malaria zone. The main areas include South and Central America, Africa and most areas in Asia. There is generally not a malaria risk in the majorly populated areas or main tourist spots, but always be cautious.Antimalarial drugs do not prevent you from being infected but kill the malaria parasites during a stage in their development. There are a number of antimalarial drugs available. I've taken Larium 3 times and haven't had any problems. You should try the medication you choose a few weeks before you leave to see if you suffer from any side effects. If you do, you have time to change your medication before you leave on your trip.

When traveling long distances, expect your body to adjust to a new time zone at the rate of about 1 hour per day.

If you are taking prescription medications on your trip: 1) check if your medication is legal in the country you are visiting, 2) pack your medication in your carryon luggage, 3) take your prescription with you in case you need to refill, and 4) carry your medication in the original prescription bottles in case you get hassled at customs.

Stay away from ice, uncooked food, and unpasteurized milk and milk products, and drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least 20 minutes.

There are bilingual doctors who were trained in the US and Europe all over the world. Your country's embassy has a good list of recommended doctors available. Get the list prior to your trip and keep it with you just in case.

Pharmacies are also a good option if you get sick. They carry a variety of over-the-counter drugs (including antibiotics). Pharmacies are open during business hours and you can usually find a list of after-hour pharmacies in the local paper.

Is it really bottled water? In a restaurant, ask for a bottle of water UNOPENED. If you have them open it at the table, you can be sure you won't get local water bottled.

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