Necessary vaccines and health tips for traveling
The world has become smaller, and traveling from one side to the other is commonplace. And of course, health must be a part of your luggage. If you're considering a trip to an exotic country, we advise you to visit our Traveler Care Office. Our professionals will inform you about everything you need to know and do before you leave, during your trip, and upon your return.
Vaccines and Pre-Travel Advice
Depending on the country you're traveling to, you'll need different vaccines. The most common ones include vaccines against cholera, diphtheria, yellow fever, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and hepatitis B, polio, rabies, and tetanus. In many cases, preventive measures against malaria or malaria are also necessary.
The Ministry of Health recommends having travel insurance that covers medical expenses and urgent repatriation if needed.
At the Traveler Care Office of Juaneda Hospitals, we always advise asking if it's necessary to carry specific medication based on the region of the world you're traveling to.
Additionally, it's essential to have:
- An updated medical report that describes any chronic disorder or illness, diagnosis, and treatment if applicable. If you require syringes or any special devices, they should be specified. It's also advisable to have the essential medications' composition in writing and preferably translated into English.
- Packaging of your regular medication, if needed, in sufficient quantity to last a considerable time in case any unforeseen events delay your return home.
- It's advisable to carry medications in your carry-on luggage to avoid the risk of loss.
Precautions and Best Practices During Travel
During your journey, certain precautions are necessary. First and foremost, try to avoid the "economy class syndrome" on the plane by wearing loose clothing, drinking plenty of water, stretching, and taking short walks upon arrival at the airport.
Once at your destination, experts recommend being especially cautious with:
- Water: If bottled water isn't accessible, boil water or use water purification tablets. A useful method for purifying water is adding two or three drops of food-grade bleach per liter of water and waiting half an hour before consuming.
- This also applies to ice, infused beverages, ice creams, and any suspicious liquid that might not have been adequately boiled.
- Bathing in ponds, pools, rivers, or oceans: It's best to swim only in chlorinated pools. Freshwater can contain parasites that contaminate the water and lead to various infections. Also, avoid walking barefoot in rice paddies or muddy ponds. As for the ocean, it's essential to be familiar with the local marine life to avoid bites, stings, or scratches from corals.
- Food: A universal rule applies to meats, fish, dairy, grains, fruits, and vegetables. You should peel the foods yourself or consume them cooked or fried. It's better to avoid everything else.
- Animals: Urban dwellers are accustomed to domesticated and presumably well-behaved animals, but in other countries, dogs, cats, squirrels, monkeys, and more can transmit many dangerous diseases.
After Your Trip
Upon returning home, keep in mind that many tropical diseases can manifest weeks or even months after your trip.
If you experience any suspicious symptoms or health disorders contracted abroad, it's advisable to visit our Traveler Care Office.
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