Traveling opens up a world of exciting experiences — but new environments also mean new germs and unexpected health risks.
With these simple yet effective tips, you can stay healthy and enjoy your trip without unpleasant interruptions.
Plan ahead
Before you leave, it’s important to know the health risks at your destination.
Dr. Henry Wu emphasizes that vaccines, mosquito precautions and good planning can save you from illness.
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Use tools like the CDC’s Travelers’ Health to find out what bacteria and viruses are common and talk to your doctor.
Pack a health kit
A well-stocked travel medical kit is a must. Bring hand sanitizer, personal medications, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medicine, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Also remember face masks for crowded places — we learned from COVID-19 that they work.
Keep good hygiene
Frequent handwashing is your first line of defense against getting sick.
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Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds — especially before eating and after being in public places.
If you can’t find a sink, use hand sanitizer.
Eat carefully
Food is a big part of any trip, but contaminated food or water can ruin your vacation. Drink safe, treated or bottled water.
Be cautious with raw or undercooked foods and choose freshly cooked, hot food instead of buffets where food sits out for hours.
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Drink safe water
In many countries, tap water is not safe to drink. Buy bottled water and make sure ice cubes are made with clean water too.
Even brushing your teeth should be done with bottled water if you’re unsure of the water quality.
Get enough rest and fight jet lag
Overdoing it and not sleeping enough can weaken your immune system.
Make sure you get enough sleep, adjust to your new time zone as quickly as possible and spend time outdoors — daylight helps your body adapt.
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Know your limits
Don’t be tempted to try risky activities you wouldn’t do at home.
According to Dr. Wu, injuries are more common than infections when traveling, especially from traffic accidents and alcohol.
Use common sense — if something looks dangerous, it probably is.
Know the symptoms
If you do get sick, it’s important to know the warning signs. Watch for fever, bloody diarrhea or severe dehydration.
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Seek medical help quickly for serious symptoms. For sunburn, stay out of the sun and use aloe vera and over-the-counter pain relief.
Avoid animal bites
Even in pet-friendly countries, there’s still a risk of rabies. Avoid contact with stray or wild animals, no matter how cute they look.
If you get bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly and get medical help immediately.
Listen to your body
If something feels wrong, act on it. Don’t wait for it to go away on its own — get help.
And remember, travel can also boost your mental health. Dr. Wu says meeting new cultures can give us healthier habits and a fresh perspective on our own lifestyle.
This article is based on information from Emoryhealthcare.org.