It’s one of the worst-case scenarios that most people agonize over: What if I get sick on my vacation?
Depending on the destination you are traveling to, you should be educated on which vaccinations and medications you can take with you before you travel, so that you’re staying healthy and having a great time while on your trip. Read on to find out how you can stay healthy while traveling:
Get your vaccines
Maybe not the types of shots you’re thinking of but vaccinations are a very important decision to consider depending on your destination. For example, recommended vaccines for Argentina, Brazil, and Peru include: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid & Rabies, Malaria, and other issues.
There are also routine vaccinations that travelers should be up-to-date with, such as Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT), Poliovirus, etc.
All travelers should consult their doctor regarding any vaccinations prior to travel. Find out more information from Contiki’s Travel Resources page.
Prescription Medication – What should I bring?
If you take any medication regularly, bring it with you on tour as the countries you are traveling in may not have them readily available. Everyday medications such as aspirin are not carried on the Contiki coach and are your own responsibility, so if you’ve got a headache and you wish it away, be sure to keep some on hand. Don’t forget your antihistamines, antibiotics, or asthma inhalers if these are items you need to have with you.
As for preventative medication, such as malaria pills, always consult your physician to ask about which medications you will need for the region you are traveling to (and to make sure you don’t have any reactions or conflicts with any medication you are currently taking!) Many medications require you to start taking them before your trip so that they are effective during your travels.
What else can I do to prevent myself from getting sick?
Know your limits and respond to your body. Health experts say that when you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated – which contributes to dry throats, chapped lips, and irritating coughs. Keep hydrated! Don’t like drinking water? Must-haves like Emergen-C or Airborne vitamin C packs can flavor your water and give you a boost in your immunity, and they come in convenient on-the-go packets too!