Travel Health
Traveling the world is a privilege most will never experience. The opportunity to travel is one that should not be passed up. However, being exposed to new places may bring unforeseen dangers upon your person. When traveling, it pays to take proactive measures for your health.
Travel immunizations are one of the best ways to protect your health while traveling abroad. It is well known that foreign lands are troubled by deadly diseases that could be prevented with a simple inoculation or preventative course of medication. Many of these preventable diseases are rare in the U.S., but still thrive in various parts of the world. Sadly, millions are affected by these diseases every year. Luckily, you don’t have to become a part of that statistic.
Beyond preventative medications and immunizations, there are other steps you can take to prevent the spread of illnesses to you and your family. It is a wise idea to carry and use hand sanitizers as you travel. Many foodborne illnesses can be transmitted from the surfaces we touch, so keep this in mind. Frequent hand washing is also a good practice, whether you are traveling or not. Don’t assume that the westernized hotel or restaurant you are using is free of disease. Always follow through with proper hygiene.
In some countries, there is a risk of contracting yellow fever, malaria, or Japanese encephalitis. These diseases are carried and transmitted by the mosquito, and are usually in areas where there is jungle or standing water. The best course of protection is to wear clothing that covers exposed skin, and use an effective repellant, such as DEET. While Dr. Gafanovich does not administer yellow fever nor Japanese encephalitis vaccines, she will direct you to West Side group of specialists who carry these types of vaccines. Please be aware of the fact that these vaccines are normally not covered by insurance plans.
At NYC travel clinic, you will be thoroughly evaluated for health risks common to travelers. It is of the utmost importance that you provide the doctor with your full itinerary, including countries where you may have a layover before reaching your final destination. If you will be visiting rural areas, or staying with friends or family, you may need additional protection. Anything you can tell the doctor will greatly aid in your preventive treatment.
Most of us born in the United States were immunized as children against the common childhood diseases, such as polio, mumps, measles, tetanus, and diphtheria. However, if you don’t know about your immunization history, let the doctor or healthcare provider know. You may need to be immunized again or take booster shots as a safety precaution.
You should plan your inoculations so that you can have them completed six weeks before you travel. This will give the shots time to become effective. Many of the common immunizations take some time to saturate your system and to protect you. Even if you aren’t able to get the shots six weeks before your departure, you should follow through anyway. You may still benefit from some protection which is better than none at all.
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Traveling outside of USA and concerned about your health? Travel vaccinations are recommended for many destinations. Find out about the requirements and talk to a physician.
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Here at Dr. Gafanovich’s medical office, you will get all the help you need to make your trip enjoyable through preventive medicine. Your health is of utmost importance, especially when traveling to foreign countries. Don’t trust just anyone; trust a doctor who specializes in travel medicine.