Health issues for travellers

No matter what type of traveller you are—adventurer or “beach bum”, planner or carefree, sensible or excessive—you will undoubtedly benefit from being prepared to prevent minor or major health issues from ruining your trip. Here is a short guide to help you plan the essentials.

A traveler at the airport smiles as she holds her passport in her hands.

Better plan sooner than later

Are you going on vacation? Wonderful! Your trip is probably well deserved and we hope everything goes smoothly. But whatever destination you choose, the best way to enjoy a great vacation is to plan ahead. Most people don’t encounter problems when they travel but sometimes, health issues can come up and turn good memories into moments you would rather forget.

Vaccination: a wise means of prevention

The risk of contracting certain diseases can increase when you visit foreign countries. This depends on several factors, such as the destination and the hygiene conditions there. Your age and overall health can also influence your risk of being infected by certain viruses or bacteria.

Thankfully, many diseases can be avoided thanks to vaccination, thus the importance of adequately planning for vaccines. In fact, some governments require specific vaccines before allowing travellers to enter their countries.

Here are a few tips regarding vaccination

  • Before you leave, make sure your vaccines are up to date.
  • Consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B, if you aren’t already.
  • Certain vaccines are optional, but can make life easier during a trip. This is the case, for example, for traveller’s diarrhea.
  • Visit your pharmacist or a travel health clinic. Your pharmacist will be able to identify, prescribe and administer the vaccines you need based on your destination country, your health status and your vaccination history.

Some vaccines require an interval between doses. In addition, a vaccine’s peak effect can take some time to reach. To make sure you are properly protected, plan your vaccines ahead.

Preparing a travel health kit

In order to provide for any contingency or health issue that may come up during your trip, think about preparing a travel kit. Your pharmacist can help you with this task. Your kit should include basic items, as well as medications and supplies that are adapted to your needs.

Prescription medication

If you take medication on an intermittent or regular basis, don’t forget to bring it with you. People who suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, cancer, etc. must be especially attentive to prevent issues from arising during their travels.

Don’t forget that when you are abroad, it can be harder to obtain the medication or medical supplies you need, so make sure you don’t run out.

Here are a few tips if you need to travel with prescription medication or medical supplies:

  • Make sure you have enough medication for the entire duration of your trip, ideally a little more.
  • Ask your pharmacist to print a complete, up-to-date list of medications you take. The name and address of the pharmacy should appear on this document. If you have a question during your trip, don’t hesitate to communicate with your pharmacist.
  • Know the names of your medications, the medical reason for taking them and their dosage.
  • As much as possible, try to avoid getting medication while you are travelling. Some might not meet Canadian standards and could cause problems when you come back home.
  • Tell your pharmacist that you will be travelling, and include your destination and the type of trip you are planning. They may have advice or tips for you.

More tips for carefree trips

  • See your doctor before your departure for a check-up. This can be especially useful if you have a chronic illness.
  • Ask your doctor to tell you, for example, what kinds of situations would require you to consult a doctor during your travels.
  • Before you leave, visit a pharmacy or clinic specializing in travel and health. Get information on the most common conditions affecting travellers, such as traveller’s diarrhea, malaria and hepatitis, and the ways to prevent or treat them.
  • Remember that your pharmacist is qualified to advise you and answer your questions about travel health. So don't hesitate to consult him or her.

The best way to fully enjoy the delightful and unique moments that travelling can offer is to set off for your vacation with peace of mind!

Caution

Any drug or natural health product can cause serious side effects or interactions with other drugs. Make sure to carefully read the labelling, warnings and leaflets provided by the manufacturer and consult your pharmacist when purchasing such drugs and natural health products. Keep out of reach of children.

Visit your pharmacist or a travel health clinic

Visit your pharmacist or a travel health clinic at least six weeks prior to your departure to ensure that you receive all required vaccinations and to prevent many health issues during your trip.

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Health issues for travellers

Don't let health issues spoil your trip! Here's a little guide to help you plan the essentials.
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