Tips for Healthy Travel

Illness is not in anyone’s vacation plan. But traveling in good health requires some know-how and advance planning. At the Center for Travel Medicine at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, physicians who are board-certified in infectious disease medicine specialize in preparing travelers for trips abroad.

At the Center, the travel medicine team discusses immunizations with clients, provides medication if necessary, and discusses related topics such as motion sickness, jet lag, diarrheal diseases, altitude sickness, and how to deal with emergencies.

"Many travelers are overwhelmed by the preparation for travel and often neglect their health needs," says Lito Fune, M.D., medical director of the Center. "Frequently those who may not have access to the latest and most accurate information provide information on immunization." But the experts at the Center are prepared to offer travelers the information they need.

Also, consider these tips to help you stay well on your next trip:

• When in doubt about the water, stick to bottled or canned beverages.
• If the food is questionable, stick to meals that are freshly cooked. These meals should be served hot and quickly. Also, don’t eat fresh fruits and vegetables unless you wash and peel them yourself.
• If you regularly take any prescription or over-the-counter medications, pack more than you think you will need. Also, ask your doctor to provide extra prescriptions in case you need refills. Luggage sometimes gets lost, so carry a small supply of essential medications with you in your purse or carry-on bag.
• Bring extra prescriptions for your contacts or eyeglasses or bring along a spare pair.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, diarrhea medications, and water purification tablets.
• If you have a chronic medical condition, ask your doctor to give you a medic alert bracelet. Or carry a letter that explains your condition.

If you are planning an overseas excursion and would like to schedule an appointment at the Center for travel Medicine at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, please call 732-776-4302, ext. 4.

Lessening Jet lag

Going on a trip soon? If you’ll be crossing several time zones, you may have a case of jet lag to look forward to when you reach your destination. Jet lag can cause weakness, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, irritability, and trouble concentrating. To make jet lag less of a drag, try these tips:

• Get plenty of rest before your trip.
• While flying, drink lots of water or juice — and avoid alcohol and caffeine — to prevent dehydration, which can worsen jet lag.
• Once you arrive, eat and sleep at the same time as the locals.
• Go outside in the sunlight as much as you can after you arrive.

American Family Physician, Vol. 66, No. 11.