Before embarking on a journey, it's crucial to consider health care to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some important aspects of traveller health to be aware of and precautions to take:
- Traveller's appointment: Book a traveller's appointment, preferably at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. A specialised health professional can provide you with personalised information on vaccines, medication and precautions specific to your destination.
- Vaccinations and Immunisations: Check that your vaccinations are up to date and whether you need any additional vaccinations for your destination, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid or rabies. Some vaccinations may be compulsory to enter certain countries.
- Preventive medication: For destinations where there is a risk of diseases such as malaria, it may be necessary to take prophylactic medication. Find out what medication is needed and how to take it correctly.
- Travel and Health Insurance: Get travel insurance that includes medical cover. Make sure the insurance covers emergency expenses, medical evacuation and travel assistance.
- First Aid Kit: Take a first aid kit with basic medicines such as painkillers, antidiarrhoea, antihistamines, antiseptics and any prescription medication you use regularly. Also include products to treat small wounds and burns.
- Food Precautions: In many destinations, water and food can be sources of infection. Always drink bottled or treated water, avoid ice in drinks, and consume well-cooked food. Avoid raw food, especially seafood and vegetables, which can be contaminated.
- Insect protection: In areas with a risk of insect-borne diseases such as dengue or Zika, use insect repellent, long-sleeved clothes and trousers, and sleep under mosquito nets.
- Personal hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitiser, especially before eating and after using sanitary facilities.
- Personal Health Conditions: If you have pre-existing health conditions, take the relevant medical documentation and an adequate amount of medication with you. Find out about the medical resources available at your destination and have emergency contact details to hand.
By following these recommendations, you can minimise health risks and enjoy your trip with greater peace of mind. Adequate preparation is essential for a safe and healthy travelling experience.
