HOLIDAY TRAVEL HEALTH CHECKLIST

HOLIDAY TRAVEL HEALTH CHECKLIST

By Oluwafemi Agbekorode

According to the American Automobile Association, more than 46 million people will be driving at least 50 miles from home during the festive period. So before you hurry off on your holidays ill-prepared. Read the helpful guide to make sure your prescription meds, vaccinations, and first aid kit are in order before you travel and to make your holiday trip an enjoyable and, most importantly, healthy one.

Before the trip

It is very important to plan, to allow ample time to obtain the required immunizations prior to travelling. You are advised to check the immigration rules of your host destination. Some west African

countries for instance require a yellow card, which is proof of yellow fever vaccination. Various other countries require other similar forms of vaccinations, especially in this post-covid-19 era. It is important

that you consult with your primary care doctor well in advance to allow for enough time to schedule appointments, obtain all necessary doses, and for the body to build up immunity.

Tis the season of jolly travelling…

Ideally, you should additionally see your healthcare provider at least a month before your trip to ask about vaccines and/ or medications you and your family may need as well as any health concerns at your host destination. For instance, there may be a risk of measles or malaria where you’re going, and some countries may require proof of vaccination. And remember to get your flu shot! It takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop in the body and protect

against the flu, thus it’s recommended that you get your shot at least two weeks before your trip. A lastminute visit to the doctor’s office is still worthwhile, even

if you’re leaving for your trip tomorrow. Ask about options for getting treatments you need on short notice. Be sure to pack enough prescription and

Tis the season of jolly travelling…

over-the-counter medications to last you and your family the entire trip (and a few extra days’ worths just in case). Pack essentials like alcohol-based hand sanitisers (containing at least 60% alcohol) or wipes, first aid supplies and EPAregistered insect repellant. Put these items in your carry-on bag in case your luggage gets lost. For repellants, you would want to look out for gels and creams as against aerosols, in conformance with airline carryon safety guidelines.

Other good items to have close at hand are packets or dispensers of disinfectant wipes to clean frequently touched personal items such as cell phones, laptops, stroller handles, steering wheels, car seats, etc.

During the trip

By whatever means you decide to travel, stretch often. Prolonged sitting can prevent your blood from circulating normally, so stretching can help lower your risk of blood clotting. If you are at particular risk for blood clots, talk to your doctor about wearing compression hosiery while travelling. You’ll want to use the insect repellant you (hopefully) packed to protect against the likes of bugs, ticks, fleas and flies that can spread serious diseases. If you’re vacationing somewhere warm and sunny, remember to apply sunscreen before applying insect repellant. If you are going to be outdoors in cold temperatures, wear light, warm layers along with gloves, hats, scarves, and waterproof boots (remember to pack these items). Also, you should be aware of travellers’ diarrhoea, the

During the trip

most common travel-related illness (particularly in children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). This condition can be caused by contaminated food or drinks, therefore it is recommended that you eat only food that has been fully cooked and is served hot. You should also drink only bottled water and sealed beverages.

Hand washing, of course, is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands often and avoid contact with anyone who is ill. When preparing food, wash hands and surfaces often, avoid crosscontamination, cook at the right internal temperatures (use a food thermometer to check) and refrigerate foods as soon as possible (preferably within two hours of cooking or buying)

In addition, being mindful of general good health habits such as getting plenty of rest, managing stress, staying active, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating nutritious foods are all immuneboosting strategies we can use any time of the year.