Travel

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Although travel to other areas, particularly to other countries or trips involving exotic activities such as scuba diving or caving can increase the risk of infections, not all travel plans have to be abandoned. With good advance planning, many trips can be made. Before traveling, it is important to talk with the health care team including the travel medicine expert about health risks in the area being visited. These experts can give you advice on how to keep yourself healthy when you travel to places where certain illnesses are known to be a problem. They may also be able to identify places where it might not be safe for you to travel. It is also important to identify where travelers can seek health care while they are in another location. Some travel problems which can be anticipated, such as traveler’s diarrhea, can be discussed with these experts.

It is also important to remember that there are many germs that can be carried by insects and control of these bugs varies in other regions of the US and the world. A good insect repellent and appropriate protection with mosquito netting and clothing is important.

There may be a need for special medication or vaccinations before traveling. Some other areas of the world also have special health rules for visitors. It is important to know what these are and to make sure all the rules are followed. If you have medical insurance, check to see what it covers when you are away from home. Many insurance plans, including Medicaid, have limited or no benefits when traveling outside the United States, including for Make-a-Wish trips. Make sure all paperwork is up to date, in order, and that proof of insurance is included.

When traveling, do not eat raw fruit or vegetables that you do not peel yourself, raw or undercooked seafood or meat, unpasteurized dairy products, unpasteurized fruit juice, or anything from a street vendor. Also, do not drink tap water, drinks made with tap water or ice if you are traveling outside of the US. Food and drinks that are generally safe include steaming hot foods, fruits and vegetables that you peel yourself, bottled drinks, hot coffee or tea, beer, wine, and water that has been vigorously boiled for 1 minute.

In many places, animals may roam around more freely than they do in the area where you live. Always wear shoes and protective clothing and sit on a towel to avoid direct contact with sand or soil. Avoid swimming in ponds, lakes, or the ocean with CD4 counts less than 250.

It is very important to take medicine with you when traveling. Be sure that you have plenty of medicine for your trip and at least 2 extra days in case of delays. When flying, medication must be in its original container with the pharmacy label intact. All medication should be carried on to the airplane to avoid a disaster in the event of lost luggage.

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