As summer holidays approach, many people will be making travel plans. I would like to highlight the significance of pre-travel advice to ensure safe travel.
Who Needs Pre-Travel Advice?
- Travelers with multiple comorbid conditions should undergo a careful risk assessment before traveling.
- Travelers from countries with high Human Development Index (HDI) scores (e.g., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Western Europe) typically do not require specific travel advice. However, routine immunizations and health screenings should be current.
- Travelers heading to other regions should seek pre-travel advice to minimize health risks.
When to Seek Pre-Travel Advice
- Ideally, schedule a consultation one month before traveling. This provides sufficient time for evaluation and necessary immunizations.
- For immune-compromised patients, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider 6 months before travel for a thorough assessment.
What to Discuss with Your Doctor
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Medical History:
- Inform your doctor about any underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, asthma, etc.), medications, or pregnancy.
- Ensure your immunization history is up-to-date.
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Travel Plans:
- Discuss your destination, planned activities, and potential health risks (e.g., exposure to arthropod bites, animals, or infectious diseases).
Considerations for Air Travel
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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):
Prolonged immobility can increase the risk of DVT. Try to move around every hour.
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Reduced Cabin Oxygen:
Passengers with heart or lung conditions should be cautious due to lower oxygen levels in the cabin.
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Ear or Sinus Pain:
Those with upper respiratory infections may experience ear or sinus discomfort during flight.
Motion Sickness
- People travelling on cruise ships or other boats are at higher risk of motion sickness. Consider remedies or preventive measures like medications or acupressure.
High Altitude Illness
- For travel to high altitudes, prophylactic medications may help with acclimatization and prevent altitude sickness.
Scuba Diving
- After scuba diving, wait 12 to 24 hours before boarding an aircraft to reduce the risk of decompression sickness.
Heat Exposure
- Stay informed about and use cooling strategies like air conditioning, water, or fans. Apply sunscreen and limit exposure during peak heat.
Infection Risks and Prevention
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Immunizations:
Make sure you receive the appropriate vaccines based on your destination and activities.
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Prophylaxis:
Depending on the region and your health status, prophylactic treatments (e.g., for malaria) may be recommended.
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Live Vaccines:
These should generally be avoided in immune-compromised patients.
Traveller’s Diarrhoea
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Cause:
Often caused by contaminated food or water, traveller’s diarrhoea is one of the most common travel-associated illnesses, especially in regions with poor sanitation.
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Prevention:
Drink only boiled or bottled water, and consume food that is well-cooked and served hot. Avoid eating from street vendors.
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Symptoms:
Fatigue, abdominal cramps, watery diarrhoea, and low-grade fever.
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Treatment:
Hydration is key, and antibiotics may be prescribed based on stool tests and severity.
Medications
- Take an adequate supply of any necessary medications for your health conditions and carry a copy of your doctor’s prescription for travelling abroad.
Be Safe and Enjoy Your Travel!
Dr. Urmila R, MBBS., DNB (Internal Medicine).,
Associate Consultant- Internal Medicine
Kauvery Hospital Chennai
