How To Safeguard Your Health Abroad

Going to another country can expose you to new health risks. It’s important to take precautions so that your trip abroad isn’t ruined by illness or injury. Below are just a few of the main ways to safeguard your health abroad. 

Research into local diseases

Malaria, yellow fever, and hepatitis B are some of the deadly diseases found around the world that tourists fall victim to. It’s worth checking which diseases are high risk in your chosen destination and how you can protect yourself against them. Malaria tablets and vaccines are some of the common forms of preventative treatment that you can look into. Given that many tropical diseases are passed via mosquitoes, it’s also worth using mosquito repellent whenever visiting a high-risk area. You can find information at sites such as Fit For Travel.

Know when to stick to bottled water

Tap water is not safe to drink in every country. It can contain bacteria and viruses which your digestive system is not used to – which could lead to diarrhea and nausea. While it’s worth taking anti-diarrheal pills just in case of this reaction, the best way to protect yourself is to avoid drinking tap water altogether. Stick to bottled water bought from trusted sources, and ask for drinks without ice (as this may be made from frozen tap water). This will stop you from wasting the first few days of your vacation on the toilet. 

Watch your alcohol consumption

Many injuries sustained abroad are alcohol-related. Dehydration is also a risk in hot countries if you’re drinking lots of alcohol and not enough water. While there’s nothing wrong with a few drinks, it’s important to know your limits and to keep drinking water throughout the day. 

Take out travel insurance

If you get injured or ill and you need to see a doctor, you will have to pay a lot of money to get treatment. Any health insurance cover you have back home most likely won’t cover you abroad. Therefore, it’s worth always taking out travel insurance to cover you so that you don’t end up having to fork out thousands of dollars. You can shop for travel insurance at sites like Generali. Always check how much your insurance covers you for and check that there are no hidden terms or conditions that could stop you from getting paid. 

Remember your meds

If you are currently on any form of prescription medication, it is important that you remember to take it with you. This includes prescription painkillers, blood thinners, insulin, contraceptive medicine, contact lenses, and allergy medication. If you think you may run out while you are away, make sure that you consult your doctor well in advance – you may be able to get some more medication to take with you to save you from having to find a pharmacy while you are abroad. 

Take a first-aid kit

Packing a first aid kit is useful in case you get injured and can’t get medical attention. It’s particularly important if you’re traveling somewhere remote. You can buy travel first aid kits online that contain all the essentials such as bandages, antiseptic cream, and tweezers.