Travelling in most cases requires us to move to new places and different environments that our bodies are not yet accustomed to; and while travelling brings with it loads of fun and adventure, it also brings with it precaution.
Here are some health tips to consider before you travel:
Research on where you’re travelling to
Do you have enough information about where you are going to? Do you know if there are certain illnesses or diseases that are in that particular region? For example with the Zika virus, certain parts of the world have reported sightings of the symptoms that the virus portrays.
Before travelling to an unfamiliar place, it’s advisable to have as much research on that area as far as your health safety is concerned.
Get checked before travelling
Most people who travel especially abroad or to other countries for a long period of time are required to get full body checkups and this should also be the case even when you aren’t going far. It’s good to let your physician know about where you’re travelling to, especially if you have certain severe medical conditions or even allergies. This way they can advise you accordingly in regards to your health.
Ask about any special vaccines that you may be required to have gotten that may be required for specific destinations. Also inquire whether your medical insurance provider if your policy applies in emergencies while overseas.
Be prepared for the worst
Check your finances keenly and make sure you have enough money put aside in case of emergencies. Anything can happen while you’re away and if your insurance policy may not cover you in a foreign country, it’s wise to have enough money kept aside to health emergency situations. You can also buy a short-term health and insurance policy that covers you while on your overseas stay.
Stock up on medicine
This especially applies for those who are on a daily dose of medications. Make sure you have enough to cover the duration of your stay without running out. Also, research on local chemists or hospitals round the areas that you will visit and ask whether they have a supply of that type of medicine. It’s also wise to carry non-prescription medicines like painkillers and antihistamines for allergies.
Have a medical file
Jot down some of your medical details on a book or a file and always have it with you in case of emergency. Include your name, age, contacts, blood type, allergy to medicine etc. such that if God forbid anything happens, you will have your records forehand making the relevant authorities to have an easier time in taking care of you in their facilities.
Learn key phrases in the local language
As much as it is helpful to learn basics like ‘Hello,’ and ‘thank you,’ it also comes in handy when you can effectively communicate in a matter of health and safety. If you have any severe medial conditions or food allergies, it’s better to learn such phrases or if you find that difficult, you can always print them up on a document that you can carry around along with your basic travel documents.
Have a medical kit
Also, carry a stocked-up first aid and medical kit that contains regular medication (mostly painkillers) and special medication as well. Have it in an easy-to-carry box that can be carried with your hand luggage.
