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Friday, December 19, 2008

Why Flu Vaccination Matters
Personal Stories from Families Affected by Influenza



Flu shots and FluMist are still available at all Passport Health Locations. To learn more about the flu go to our Influenza information page.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Far too many international travelers, from businesspeople to adventure tourists, leave home without taking appropriate steps to protect their health. People need to put the same kind of preparation into their health as they do into their destination choice, passport acquisition or flight plans.

Here are some health tips for international travelers:
Get advice from a travel health professional. Four to six weeks before departure, consult a travel medicine specialist for the most up-to-date immunization and safety recommendations. These professionals can answer your questions and prepare you for a safe and healthy trip.

Protect your feet with some kind of footwear — even on the beach.

Drink only bottled or purified water. Don’t use tap water when brushing your teeth, and always inspect the seal on bottled water.

Eat only well-cooked foods; avoid salads, uncooked vegetables, creamy desserts and food sold by street vendors. Though it may taste good, you will regret your decision when you are spending the rest of your trip in the hotel restroom.

Take a basic first-aid kit. Include medications for pain relief, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, topical preparations for minor skin wounds and infections, and medications for allergic reactions.

Liquid hand sanitizers. The little bottles that can get through security can give you peace of mind when using well-used restrooms. Should you wipe the seat divider on the plane? Absolutely, and other surfaces you’ll touch during your long flight.

Band-Aids. Can’t have too many of them when traveling. Take all sizes and types. Besides the cuts and scrapes, they’re good for stopping foot blisters before they start.

All these cautions could easily cause you to opt to stay at home under your covers. Remember, you can get hurt or sick here, too, so hit the road and enjoy what the world has to offer. With a little preparation and a visit to a travel health specialist, you’ll be fine and have some amazing memories, too.

If you are interested in purchasing some helpful travel accessories click here.

Thank you to The Executive Director of Passport Health Colorado, Michelle Reesman, R.N., for this very helpful information. Michelle holds a certificate in Travel Health from the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM).