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Travel Health - Precautions Along the Way
Traveling comes with a whole new set of things to think about. The following can help you stay healthy and enjoy your trip as much as possible.
Tips for flying
Flying is not always fun. But you can take steps to make it easier and to feel better during and after your flight.
- Pack anything that may cause problems at security-such as gels, liquids, sharp scissors, or pocket knives-in the luggage you plan to check. For an updated list of what is not allowed in carry-on luggage, see the Transportation Security Administration website at www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm.
- Wear roomy, comfortable shoes that slip on and off. These are easy to remove when you go through security at the airport. They will also be more comfortable if your feet swell on the plane.
- Take steps to prevent dangerous blood clots during long periods of travel. Sitting still for 4 or more hours slows down the blood flow in your legs and raises your blood clot risk.
- Take steps to prevent jet lag, such as drinking plenty of liquids and changing your sleep schedule to the new time zone.
If you have a fear of flying, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend medicines, hypnosis, or breathing, visualization, and relaxation exercises to help you feel less afraid.
Water and food safety
Contaminated water and food are the most common cause of illness in travelers. These illnesses range from an inconvenient case of travelers' diarrhea and the norovirus (Norwalk virus) seen on cruise ships to severe cholera.
It's hard to know if tap water is properly treated, so most doctors recommend avoiding tap water if there is any doubt. Safe beverages include drinks made with boiled water, such as tea and coffee. Or drink only canned or bottled carbonated beverages (including bottled water and soft drinks) and beer and wine. Ice should also be considered contaminated and should not be used in drinks. Dry the opening of wet cans or bottles before taking a drink. Remember not to brush your teeth with tap water.
Travelers to backcountry areas of North America should also take precautions with water. Even though the water in high mountain lakes looks sparkling clear, it may be contaminated with Giardia intestinalis, the parasite that causes giardiasis. Take simple precautions to avoid this illness, such as boiling the water.
Likewise, swimming in contaminated fresh water, such as ponds or rivers, can expose you to diseases. Even swimming pools with inadequate chlorination pose a risk. Talk to your doctor if you plan on doing recreational water sports-such as white-water rafting, adventure racing, or kayaking-in tropical and backcountry regions.
Take precautions with food by avoiding raw fruits (unless you wash and peel them yourself), raw vegetables, and raw or undercooked meat and seafood. Steaming hot, well-cooked food is usually the safest. Although tempting, don't eat food or drink from street vendors. Make sure dairy products have been pasteurized.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
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