TRAVEL TIPS FOR SUMMER
As school ends many of us have plans to get as far out of Dodge as we can. And if we are fortunate enough to be flying the friendly skies or climbing the highest mountain we want to have a great time without the worry of health concerns. In order for this to happen the SHS has the following suggestions to make before you leave:
Immunizations: Update your diphtheria and tetanus booster every ten years. If you are at risk for hepatitis A (potential exposure to contaminated water or food, infected food handlers, raw or undercooked shellfish, unsanitary conditions) there is a new vaccine, which we have, that can protect you. Remember influenza can occur at any time of year in some parts of the world. If you are traveling to those areas you may want to be vaccinated or carry prophylactic antiviral medications with you.
To be safe check the CDC Travel Information page on the web to see if there are any special precautions for the area you plan to visit: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/ A sample of the information found on the web page for the Caribbean and other popular destinations includes the following concern about a common malady:
Traveler’s Diarrhea, the number one illness in travelers, can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which may contaminate the food or water. Infections may cause diarrhea and vomiting (E. coli, Salmonella, cholera, and parasites), fever (typhoid fever and toxoplasmosis), or liver damage (hepatitis). Make sure your food and drinking water are safe.
The CDC recommends that all travelers should take the following precautions, no matter the destination:
- Wash hands often with soap and water.
- Because motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury among travelers, walk and drive defensively. Avoid travel at night if possible and always use seat belts.
- Don’t eat or drink dairy products unless you know they have been pasteurized.
- Eat only thoroughly cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself. Remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.
- Never eat undercooked ground beef and poultry, raw eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. Raw shellfish is particularly dangerous to persons who have liver disease or compromised immune systems.
Have a wonderful time!