Tips for staying safe while traveling
By Katy Johnson
The holidays are here and soon the holidays, and for many, that means trips are on the horizon — whether it’s a cruise, a European adventure, a mission trip abroad or a visit to family in another state, or country. Before you start packing, there’s one important step that too many travelers overlook: taking care of your travel health.
Travel Health Planning Before You Leave
Three Rivers Medical Associates, a medical practice with a team of doctors across South Carolina, emphasizes the importance of personalized travel medicine counseling tailored to your destination, planned activities and health history and offers tips on how to stay healthy.
WHO SHOULD SEE A PROVIDER BEFORE TRAVELING?
A travel health visit is a good idea for almost anyone planning an international trip. It’s especially important for:
• People traveling to tropical or developing regions
• Adults and children who may be behind on routine vaccines
• Those with underlying health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or a compromised immune system
• Pregnant individuals planning to travel
• Anyone visiting friends or family in countries with a higher infectious disease risk
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD YOU BOOK YOUR TRAVEL HEALTH APPOINTMENT?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the short answer is: earlier than you think. The CDC recommends scheduling a pre-travel appointment at least four to six weeks before your departure date. But for some destinations and vaccines, you’ll want to plan even further ahead.
Even if your trip is just a few weeks away, don’t skip the appointment. A last-minute visit is still valuable. Providers can prioritize the most important vaccines, discuss any medications you may need, and help you understand the risks specific to your destination.
VACCINES TO REVIEW BEFORE ANY INTERNATIONAL TRIP
Providers will check routine vaccines (Tdap, MMR, flu, COVID-19, flu ) and recommend destination-specific ones such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and meningococcal, depending on where you’re headed.
PACK A TRAVEL MEDICAL KIT
Essentials include: Prescriptions + copies, OTC pain/fever relievers, antidiarrheal medication, antihistamines; bandages, antiseptic wipes, insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), SPF 30+ sunscreen; oral rehydration powders, hand sanitizer, emergency contacts and insurance information.
FOOD & WATER SAFETY ABROAD
Traveler’s diarrhea is one of the most common trip-ruining illnesses. Stick to bottled or purified water, fully cooked foods and fruits you can peel yourself. Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer.
WHEN TO SEE A PROVIDER AFTER YOU RETURN
Most travel-related illnesses appear within days to weeks of returning home. If you experience any of the following after returning from international travel, it’s a good idea to contact your provider:
• Fever, chills, or sweating
• Persistent diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• A skin rash or insect bite that appears infected or worsens
• Fatigue, muscle aches, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Always let our team know where you traveled so they can consider destination-specific illnesses when evaluating your symptoms.
PLAN AHEAD FOR A HEALTHIER TRIP
Winter travel can be one of the most rewarding experiences for you and your family. Taking the time to prepare your health before you go can help ensure your trip stays memorable for all the right reasons.
The earlier you schedule your travel health appointment, the more options you have — especially for vaccines that require a series of doses. We recommend booking at least six to eight weeks before departure when possible.
If your trip is coming up soon, don’t wait — even a last-minute visit can provide important protections and guidance. For more information visit www.3riversmed.com.
