By Ginger Bane, Nurse Practitioner
After a year of isolation and canceled plans, you may be itching to travel. If you are taking any long trips this summer, especially if you plan to travel abroad, there may be more preparation involved. These are just a few recommendations to help get you started on your summer plans.
Know your health status before you make travel plans.
Check your destination to get country-specific health advice which may include vaccination requirements or Covid-19 testing.
Consider travel insurance and specifically look at the Covid-19 coverage.
Register in the US Dept. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This helps the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
Pack smart. If you take any medicines regularly, pack enough for your whole trip plus a little extra, just in case. Bring a photocopy of essential documents in case you lose your passport or ID. Bring your health insurance card.
Drive safely. Accidents involving motor vehicles are the number one cause of preventable deaths of Americans abroad. Wear your seatbelt. Consider hiring a driver. Walk when possible.
Consider wearing compression socks. If traveling on a long trip by plane or car, get up frequently to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Do calf raises or write your ABCs with your toes.
Use an approved insect repellent. Mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and some flies can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, zika, dengue, chikungunya or Lyme disease.
Wear sunscreen! Be sure to use one that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
If going to the beach, be aware of water conditions, beach flags, and warning signs.
Relax, take a lot of photos and have fun!
Happy Traveling!