Peace of mind is priceless
With Canadians spending more money than ever on travel, taking preventative health measures before a trip is just as important as booking flights and accommodations.
Pharmacist and Senior Director, Pharmacy Innovation & Professional Affairs at Wholehealth Pharmacy Partners, Molly Yang, explains, “When you’re arranging a trip, there are so many expenses on the front end that travel health seems like another line item, but think about it like travel insurance. You want to protect yourself and also have peace of mind.”
It’s wise to visit a travel health provider, ideally four to six weeks before your trip, and at a minimum two weeks before, because your body needs time to build immunity after a vaccine. In addition to vaccines, there are many different behavioural strategies a provider can suggest to address risks based on your destination and itinerary.
Avoiding the bathroom blues…
Diarrhea during travel is one of the most common illnesses affecting vacationers. Usually caused by Enterotoxigenic E.coli (ETEC) bacteria hiding in contaminated food and water, you should pay mind to the popular saying, “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.” In other words, don’t eat anything raw, make sure fruit can be peeled and that cooked foods are eaten right away. Avoid ice in your cocktails and mocktails and only drink bottled water.
Can you enjoy authentic food experiences while still being cautious about your health? “Absolutely,” says Molly. “To many travellers, street food is part of the travel experience. I advise being a bit more cognizant on how things are prepared and put out in the food stall. When food is cooked well and freshly prepared, there is less chance of bacteria being an issue.”
Simple preventative measures such as an oral vaccine to help protect against LT-ETEC diarrhea, proper hand hygiene and watching what you eat and drink will help ensure a diarrhea-free holiday. You can get both the vaccine and other over the counter treatments for diarrhea at the pharmacy or travel clinic.
Say “no” to bug bites
Mosquito-borne diseases in tropical and subtropical regions are on the rise. Thankfully, there are vaccines available to protect against many illnesses caused by mosquito bites, such as Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya and yellow fever. These conditions are not just trip ruiners; they can also have long-term severe consequences on your health.
Molly explains, “With climate change, we’re seeing migration of mosquitoes and related diseases where we haven’t before. That’s another reason we recommend visiting your travel provider and making sure they’re up to date with the latest patterns and advisories. Mosquitoes don’t care about borders, but the diseases they carry can turn a dream trip into a hospital stay. Book a travel consult to make sure you’re protected before you go.”
Mosquitoes are usually most active at dusk and dawn, so try to avoid going out during those times and use insect repellent containing either DEET, or icaridin, which is safer for children. Wear protective clothing that covers most of your skin and use mosquito nets if you’re staying in accommodations without air conditioning or bug screens.
Priceless prevention
Preventative vaccines are more accessible now than ever before.
Molly shares, “Many pharmacies offer travel health services for walk-ins, or can connect you with a virtual travel service. Overall, including travel health is a necessary step before your trip. You book your tickets, your accommodations, plan your outfits and you have to stop at the pharmacy for your OTC products, sunscreen, bug spray. While there, ask the pharmacist if they offer travel health services. Because with global health changing so much, it is very relevant to get an up-to-date consult each time. Many of these vaccines protect you for long periods, it really is an investment in your own health and if you’re an avid traveller, it gives you peace of mind on your trip. And that’s priceless.”
