Some Travel Tips
Travel is not only exploring new cultures and seeing new sights, it is also associated with health risks. However, simple yet effective steps for those who want to minimize their exposure to almost any major health hazard are as follows:
Eating and drinking safely! In order to prevent oneself from contracting diarrhea, cholera, typhoid and hepatitis A the following foods should be avoided:
- Food that has been kept warm.
- Uncooked food (unless you can peel or shell it yourself).
- Food likely to have been exposed to flies.
- Ice cream sold from unreliable sources such as kiosks.
- Unpasteurized milk.
- Uncooked fish.
Taking care in the sun! While the sun is an important source of vitamin D and should be enjoyed, sunburn by overexposure can lead to premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.
In order to avoid sunburns it is advisable to stay out of the midday sun, wear a wide brimmed hat and tightly woven but loose clothing. To protect parts of your skin exposed to the sun, sun cream should be used, and you should also wear sunglasses with UV-filter to protect your eyes.
Using insect repellent to cover up your arms and legs can prevent you from serious and sometimes fatal infections transmitted by insect bites.
Taking care in water. Never go swimming alone. Remember that fatal accidents can happen very easily in water. Watch out for your friends and family and make sure they are watching out for you too while you are swimming!
If you are going to dive into the water, make sure to find a place deep enough for this activity. It may look funny when you imagine this picture, but many people get permanently paralyzed or even killed as a result of diving into shallow waters.
Taking care on the roads. Traffic accidents are a major cause of death among travelers (both drivers and pedestrians). Always check the local traffic regulations as these can vary enormously from those in your country. Always wear your seatbelt if you are in a car; always wear a helmet if riding a bike or motorbike.
If you are hiring a car, make sure to check the general condition and the insurance cover. Obviously NEVER drink and drive.
Taking care while taking up hazardous sports and diving. Always follow the relevant safety guidance while taking part in a hazardous activity; make sure there are adequate emergency medical facilities nearby; make sure that your medical insurance fully covers you in the event of an accident. Divers should allow a minimum of 24 hours between their last dive and a flight.
Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure - travel can be really enjoyable and worthwhile. just make sure you take all the necessary precautions to ensure safe your travel!