Take a Trip to the Travel Doctor

We envision a vacation to be devoid of stress, full of adventure, and simply relief from the daily grind. However, we don’t often prepare for any unexpected health issues when away from home. A doctor’s office, walk-in clinic, or hospital, is the last place you would want to be in at your dream destination. You should be on a beach, in an art museum, or white water rafting!

Health care services and benefits are privileges that not everyone has access to, but if you’re able to, I recommend consulting a travel doctor before you take off or sail away. A travel agent, family doctor, pharmacist, or a quick search online can help you find a travel doctor. They will charge a fee, but the knowledge they’ll bestow upon you will be worth your while. Think of it as a preventative measure. Visiting a few countries on one trip? A travel doctor will know about each one! They don’t want you to come home with an unwanted souvenir like the cold, flu, or parasite. Travel bug though? Yes!

Carry Antibiotics
One of the most essential items in my carry-on is a box of antibiotics. A travel doctor can prescribe antibiotics that cover a variety of bacterial infections. While ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen/paracetamol (Tylenol) can help with a hangover or symptoms from the flu or common cold, I’ve had more than enough respiratory infections to recognize when I require antibiotics. You know your body best, so take the advice of your travel doctor, and read labeled instructions prior to taking any prescription and over-the-counter medication.

Don’t Get Bitten
I don’t know how you feel about insects, but their sting or bite can put a damper on your plans, especially if you’re allergic to any. Many countries are home to feisty mosquitoes awaiting your oh-so-sweet blood. Not only will a travel doctor recommend using insect repellent, they may also suggest an antihistamine such as Benadryl or Reactine (cetirizine) to help reduce swelling if bitten. The list of diseases carried by mosquitoes is long, and a travel doctor can name those relevant to your destination. A travel-friendly bottle of insect repellent is definitely a must in your check-in baggage. I need DEET to fight them off! Do you prefer something natural? Look for repellent with essential oils that contain citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender.

Keeping Track
If you don’t know what vaccines are still present in your immune system, take a blood test with a family or travel doctor. Many vaccinations need updating every couple of years, so some of the ones you received as a child may not be protecting you anymore. When I found out I no longer had immunity for MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) and Hepatitis B, I was shocked. After receiving my results, I took my booster shots.

Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, and record each name and date taken. Your travel doctor will let you know which countries require what vaccines, so keep your records with your travel documents, like your passport and itinerary. While there isn’t a vaccine for dengue fever, there is one for yellow fever, and it comes with its own record card. If your COVID vaccination certificate is a digital file, download the PDF onto your phone. If it’s a card, laminate it and keep it with your passport.

Travel Insurance
Did I mention white water rafting? What about mountain climbing, kayaking, glacier hiking, or skydiving? You’ll want insurance whether or not you participate in anything considered “extreme” by insurance companies. The rate is worth saving your life!

I’ve traveled with Manulife’s CoverMe over the years, and have recently switched to WorldNomads to include more outgoing activities. You can check your credit card company to see if they already offer travel insurance. They are unlikely to cover horseback riding, surfing, and zip lining. It’s worth looking into coverage even if you intend to stay put at an all-inclusive resort for a long weekend.

It is essential to make sure COVID is covered in your plan in every way that protects you and your trip! Your health and safety are a priority.

And Then Some
You can’t always eat and drink what’s right in front of you, nor can you always brush your teeth with local tap water. A travel doctor can advise you on what foods to avoid, and prescribe you a specific antibiotic for something that Pepto Bismol or Imodium can’t resolve. It’s to be taken if, and only if, your symptoms are severe. Plus, request anti-nausea pills if over-the-counter products (Dramamine or Gravol) haven’t helped you in the past.

Lastly, a travel doctor can let you know whether your trip will involve visiting a high-altitude destination. It’s best to prepare you for those above sea level moments instead of feeling incredibly uncomfortable when you’re actually there with nothing to relieve you. You can’t enjoy the moment when you’re trying hard to hold something inside that wants to come out of you badly.

Living in a first world country, we tend to take for granted that our necessities are easily purchased within walking distance or a short drive. It’s not so convenient when you’re somewhere else and you don’t speak their language. This is why seeing a travel doctor beforehand and following their expertise can maximize the fun and minimize the worry!