Do you need treatment for travel infections?

Before you depart, it's essential to gather information about the health facilities and services available at your destination. Researching local customs, weather conditions, and geography can also help you prepare accordingly. Familiarise yourself with these aspects as they can significantly affect your health.

If you're travelling to destinations where food and water quality is poor, it's important to take precautions. Contaminated food and water can lead to various infections such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis A, cholera, and typhoid. Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing. In areas where tap water is unsafe, drink only bottled water, avoid putting ice in drinks, eat only peelable fruits, and steer clear of uncooked food like salads.

In certain regions, mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and yellow fever. Ticks can also transmit Lyme disease. It's essential to avoid contact with animals that may transmit diseases like rabies. Consult your doctor to learn about the best ways to protect yourself from these diseases and whether you need specific medications or vaccinations.

If you're taking a long-haul flight, it's important to stay hydrated and exercise your leg muscles regularly to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If you're at high risk for DVT, such as recent surgery, pregnancy, or other medical conditions, consult your doctor before travelling. Additionally, speak with your doctor about strategies to avoid motion sickness or cope with jet lag if these are concerns for you.

If you take regular medicines, take special care before leaving to ensure you're properly prepared. Make sure you have enough medicine to last throughout your trip since it may not be readily available at your destination. Certain medicines may be illegal in some countries, so check with the relevant country's embassy or consulate. Keep your medications in their original packaging, clearly labeled with your name and dosage instructions. It's advisable to carry a letter from your doctor describing the medicine, the quantity you'll be carrying, and stating it's for personal use. If you need to buy medicines overseas, check with a local doctor to ensure their strength and active ingredients are suitable. If you require injectable medicines, verify whether you're allowed to bring your own needles and syringes, or if you can buy them overseas, ensure they are sealed and sterile.

Consult your doctor about the vaccinations or boosters you may need before your trip. Many diseases that pose a risk to travelers can be prevented through immunization. Check with the embassy or consulate of the countries you plan to visit or transit through, as some may have vaccination requirements for entry. It's important to be aware that in some countries, you may be denied entry or required to receive the vaccination at the border.

The most important advice for travelers is to visit their doctor well in advance of their trip, preferably at least 8 weeks prior. Your doctor can provide guidance on vaccinations, necessary medications, and lifestyle measures to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and productive trip.