Health Tips

While most travel-related illness is minor, all travelers should be prepared for travel and be aware of health issues and measures to protect themselves from sickness.

Before you travel
There are many things you can do to prepare for a healthy holiday:

• Have a medical check-up. Make sure you are healthy before you travel.
• Update your vaccinations and ask about other immunizations.
• Pack a medical kit for yourself and any children travelling with you. Make sure you pack enough  of any medications you need, or take a prescription.
• Organize travel insurance, including cover if you need to be evacuated to a suitable hospital.
• Have a dental checkup.
• Have a vision check and pack a spare pair of glasses.
  

Older Travelers
For older travelers, the risk of death or serious illness while travelling is higher.  However, planning is important and older travelers should consider the following before they travel:

• See your doctor for a checkup and discuss your fitness for the trip you are planning.
• See your dentist and optometrist.
• Pack a spare pair of glasses, any medications you need and a small medical kit.
• Organize travel health insurance with pre-existing illness cover if needed. Make sure it covers emergency evacuation.
• Make sure routine immunizations are up-to-date and get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia.
• Consider your back - use luggage with built in wheels.
• Take clothes and hats to suit the climate.
• If concerned about your health, consider taking an organized holiday.
  

Travelers with a disability
Travelers with a disability will need to make sure in advance that their needs can be accommodated while travelling and should consider the following:

• Make arrangements for wheelchairs, guide dogs, and seating needs well in advance.
• Find out about the medical facilities in the areas you will be visiting.
• Get a letter from your doctor detailing your medical requirements or conditions.
• Carry a Medic-alert tag.
• While you are there - eat and drink wisely