Travel Health Tips

By Dr. Burnell Cardron Photographs and Images Courtesy Of Pro-headshots and Island Queen Marketing

Health tips in preparation for travelling

When preparing to travel, it always helps to plan ahead to avoid any unforeseen circumstances. Whether you are travelling for short or long trips, there are certain helpful health tips that should be considered, especially if you have health issues:

• If you suffer from chronic illnesses, it may be beneficial to visit your doctor for a health check-up prior to travelling, especially when taking long trips • Inquire about mandatory vaccinations when travelling to other countries at least six to eight weeks prior • It also helps to pack a small medical kit in the event of any minor injuries or accidents • Ensure you pack enough of your prescribed medications, and it always helps to pack them the night before, so they are not forgotten • Organize travel insurance prior to your trip and be sure to include cover if you need to be evacuated to a suitable hospital • It always helps to check for any medical facilities near to your location when visiting in the event of an emergency • Ensure that routine immunizations for influenza and pneumonia are up to date prior to travelling

Health tips for older travellers

• Consider your back and joints when travelling and use luggage with built-in wheels to avoid too much heavy lifting • If you wear glasses, pack an extra pair in case the ones you are using are misplaced • Be sure to check the weather of the location to which you are travelling, so that you can pack appropriate clothing for specific climates • Persons with pre-existing conditions should arrange for travel health insurance if their local health insurance is not covered abroad

Tips for travellers with disability and/or special conditions

• Persons who are disabled or have difficulty with mobility should consider making arrangements for wheelchairs and seating needs in advance • It also helps to inform the airline of your need for assistance with a guide dog or service animal • If you wear a medical alert bracelet or pendant for certain conditions, it is also advised to inform the airline, so they can be aware and prepared in the event of an emergency • It is recommended that persons with special conditions carry a letter from their doctor detailing any medical requirements or pertinent information • Remember to locate medical facilities near you when visiting abroad in the event of an emergency

We are located at #85 Robinson Road, Nassau, Bahamas, open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. We cater to well and sick visits, COVID-19 Rapid Antigen and RT-PCR testing, IV treatments, minor surgical procedures and consultations to name a few. We also accept major insurances and National Health Insurance (NHI) to all qualified persons. UA