The Most Common CDC Travelers Health Recommendations You Should Follow

The Most Common CDC Travelers Health Recommendations You Should Follow

Traveling is an exciting and enriching experience, which can have its downsides if you’re not careful. You might regret not taking the necessary precautions to stay healthy during your journey if you get sick, injured, or suffer from an unexpected medical condition. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers useful recommendations to keep travelers’ health in check. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common CDC travelers’ health recommendations you should follow.

Get Vaccinated

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent many common diseases that travelers might encounter. Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date before you travel, and get any recommended vaccines for your destination. Consult with a travel health specialist or your healthcare provider to know which vaccines you need, depending on your itinerary, activities, and medical history.

Stay Safe While Eating and Drinking

Food and water-borne illnesses are widespread among travelers. To avoid getting sick, follow the “boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” rule when it comes to food and beverages. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or water that has been disinfected with tablets or a filter. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, fish, or eggs, as well as unpasteurized dairy products. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating, and carry a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol in your backpack.

Prevent Insect and Animal Bites

Insect and animal bites and stings can cause a variety of health problems, from minor irritation to severe infections or diseases. Before traveling to areas where insects and animals are prevalent, consider your risk factors for exposure, and learn how to avoid getting bitten or stung. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats, and use insect repellent containing DEET or other recommended ingredients. Stay away from animals, especially wild or stray ones, and don’t touch them even if they seem friendly.

Avoid Altitude Sickness

Traveling to high altitudes can cause altitude sickness, a condition caused by low oxygen levels in the body. Symptoms of altitude sickness can range from mild headaches and nausea to severe shortness of breath and confusion. To avoid altitude sickness, take it slow and give your body time to adjust to the changes in oxygen levels. Drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, and rest when you feel tired or short of breath.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Exposure to the sun can cause a range of skin problems, from sunburn to skin cancer. Protect your skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 or higher, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously and frequently, especially after swimming or sweating. Seek shade or stay indoors during peak sun hours.

Stay Healthy During Long-Haul Flights

Long-haul flights can take a toll on your health, from jet lag to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To stay healthy during long flights, drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and move around the cabin as often as possible. Wear compression stockings to prevent DVT, and stretch your legs, arms, and back in your seat. Adjust your sleep schedule before your trip, and try to sleep on the plane if possible.

Conclusion

Traveling can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, as long as you take the necessary precautions to stay healthy. By following the CDC’s recommended health and safety guidelines, you can minimize your risk of getting sick, injured, or suffering from an unexpected medical condition. Remember to consult with a travel health specialist or your healthcare provider before your trip, and be prepared with any necessary medication or supplies. Bon voyage!