Travel Health: Keeping Your Family Safe While Away from Home

Vacations are a summertime favorite for many people. A lot of times those vacations involve families – 408.5 million domestic trips included children under the age of 18 in 2012, according to the U.S. Travel Association. That’s a lot of parents and kids traveling throughout the country – making safety and health all the more important.

One thing that can quickly ruin a family vacation is a minor illness or injury. No one wants to have their relaxing or adventurous trip put on hold for a health problem. With these tips, however, you don’t have to.

Be proactive

Travel with your health insurance card in case something happens and you need to visit an urgent care center. See a doctor before your trip, especially if you have health issues. Have a suitable supply of medications so that you don’t run out. Planning ahead is a great way to stay healthy during a vacation.
 

Pack and use proper gear

This includes sunscreen (especially if you’re going on a beach vacation), insect repellent (if you know you’ll be outdoors often), and other protective gear if you’re taking part in adventure activities (hiking, zip-lining, biking, etc.) Always protect yourself from the elements, since a bad sunburn or other circumstances can quickly ruin a vacation.
 

Be cautious about food and water

To avoid food poisoning (no one wants to spend their vacation bent over a toilet), be mindful of what you’re eating and drinking. If you travel out of the country, make sure the water is safe to drink. If not, always opt for bottled water. Try to stick to cooked foods rather than raw or ready-to-eat foods, as the latter are more likely to be contaminated with germs and bacteria.
 

Pay attention and follow traffic safety laws

This one might seem obvious, but if you’re traveling on roads that are unfamiliar, you need to be extra cautious. Always wear a seatbelt while in an automobile. Follow the local speed limits and signs. And of course, always be on the lookout for other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
 

Don’t ignore signs of illness when you come home

You could contract an illness while traveling but not notice it until you get home. This is especially true when going out of the country. Pay close attention to your body – are you feeling strange? Weak, fatigued, nauseous? See a doctor if you don’t feel right and make sure to mention that you recently traveled.

What to Do if You Get Sick or Injured While Traveling

Regardless of how hard you may try, sometimes a minor illness or injury just happens. If you experience fever, nausea, earaches, stomachaches, rashes, sore throat, infections, insect bites, sprains, cuts, burns or other issues while traveling, visit an urgent care center nearby. If you’re vacationing in New York City, GoHealth Urgent Care has multiple locations throughout the area that are convenient and patient-focused. 

Stop by. We’ll be here, ready to help.