Protect Your Health When Traveling Internationally

While traveling abroad can be exotic and exciting, many Americans make the mistake of failing to take the right health precautions before, during and after their trips. Those “precautions” will vary, depending on the region in which you are traveling, so it’s important to schedule a doctor visit at least three months before your departure to ensure you take the right measures to protect your health.

International Travel Tips for Health

• Get the appropriate vaccinations for influenza, tetanus, diphtheria, pneumonia, measles, polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, yellow fever, meningitis, dengue and others
• Be aware of the diseases common to the area in which you are traveling
• Bring any prescription medications you may need
• Ask your doctor about bringing antibiotics
• Drink bottled water to avoid traveler’s diarrhea
• Avoid getting drinks with ice – the ice may be contaminated
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked food – even salads and fruit with thin skin
• Check all travel warnings
• Avoid eating in establishments that don’t appear clean
• If you will be sexually active, bring condoms and practice safe sex
• Pay attention to your body; if you are feeling ill, get medical attention 
• Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose
• Get plenty of sleep

Depending on where you have traveled, it may be wise to visit your doctor after your trip for a routine check-up. Your doctor can advise you on this during your pre-travel appointment.

If you are planning to travel internationally, schedule an appointment with Dr. Marilyn Kutzscher in San Francisco at 415-923-3560 or marilynkmd.com to determine what steps you should take before, during and after your travels.