Travel Health: Avoiding International Travel Health Hazards
Travel is basically the moving of individuals between various far off geographical areas. Travel can normally be one way, either round trip or via several modes, and can usually be one way travel. It may include air travel, railway travel, road travel, or boat/ship travel. A typical travel route would be a well-traveled route in most cases. A person may travel around the world if they so desired or simply for vacation purposes.
If traveling is to take place over a longer period of time, such as a year or two, it is possible that vaccines may become necessary. For this reason, travelers are advised to wear masks when traveling. In addition, there are some countries which require travelers to be properly vaccinated against diseases at least once within their lifetime. Travelers are strongly recommended to consult with their travel doctors or health authorities before leaving for any journey to prevent acquiring any diseases. They are also advised to seek the services of fully vaccinated people while on travel, especially those residing in areas which are prone to disease.
Those who are traveling to underdeveloped or developing countries are encouraged to wear masks, goggles, and gloves while traveling. This is due to the risk of exposure to diseases which could be life threatening. Masks or goggles will prevent particles from entering the eyes and nose. This will also reduce chances of infections to other parts of the body. Some travelers prefer not to wear masks while traveling, and prefer to feel the wind on their skin and breathe naturally.
The World Health Organization recommends that travelers get vaccinated or undergo varicella, rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and rotavirus vaccinations within 14 days of travel. One should contact their traveling doctor immediately if they suspect they might have an illness not mentioned. These vaccinations can help prevent serious diseases such as AIDS and cancer. However, they cannot help prevent bacterial or viral infections. Hence, travelers are strongly recommended to visit a local clinic if they develop an illness or infection after their trip.
Of course, the United States has its own set of recommendations for travelers. Those traveling to the United States should consult their local vaccination clinics for information regarding their vaccines. However, it is highly recommended that they get fully vaccinated during their stay in the United States. For those traveling abroad, they can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more detailed instructions.
Although tourists are not required to be vaccinated or receive a medical checkup before leaving the country, many do feel the importance of doing so. For one, it is important to know that the diseases mentioned above can easily spread due to close contact with the sick or contaminated person. Moreover, the United States does not have a good track record when it comes to international travel illnesses. For this reason, travelers are strongly advised to practice proper hygiene at all times and to stay home if they develop any symptom of an illness.
