Bug Off: How to Manage Illness When You're Traveling

Written and Contributed by Jesse Clark

No one likes getting sick, but it's an especially unwelcome event when you're on the road. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, getting sick can put a damper on your plans. But don't worry! With a little preparation, you can arm yourself against illness and have a much better chance of staying healthy while you travel. Today, we share some tips and resources to help you stay safe and healthy out there.
 
It Never Hurts to Prepare 

Before you set out on your trip, there are some preparations you can make to protect your health. First, be sure to visit your doctor for a checkup before you go. This is especially important if you're traveling to a foreign country, as there may be shots or other precautions you need to take. If you have any chronic conditions, such as diabetes or asthma, get all the necessary prescriptions filled and pack them in your carry-on bag. And don't forget to pack plenty of over-the-counter medications for common ailments like headaches and stomachaches.

Have Your Information Handy by Digitizing Documents 

For those who travel frequently, digitizing medical information can be a lifesaver. By storing everything from prescription medications to immunization records in a digital format, it is easy to keep track of everything and have it readily available when needed. Plus, with the rise of mobile devices and apps, it is easier than ever to access medical information on the go. To help with your search, save all your files as a single PDF. By adding pages to your PDFs, you can maintain a single file of neatly organized, easily accessible information specifically for travel.

Tips for Staying Healthy 

There are also some things you can do to stay healthy while you travel. Drinking plenty of water is key to avoiding dehydration, which can weaken your immune system and leave you more susceptible to illness. Be sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, especially if you're flying or spending time in a dry climate. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages too close to bedtime so that you can get a good night's sleep. Getting enough rest is important for maintaining a strong immune system.
 
Also, pay close attention to what you eat while traveling. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables will help keep your immune system strong, but be careful of eating food from street vendors, it may not be clean or properly cooked. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and order food that has been cooked thoroughly. And lastly, be sure to wash your hands often! Handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of illness.

When You Get Sick 

Despite your best efforts, there's always a chance that you could get sick while traveling, especially if you're going somewhere with different water and food standards than what you're used to at home. If you start feeling ill while away from home, there are some things you can do to feel better fast. First, drink lots of fluids and get plenty of rest. Both will help your body heal more quickly. You should also continue washing your hands frequently and avoiding contact with others as much as possible so as not to spread the illness further.
 
If your symptoms persist or become worse after a day or two, it's time to seek medical care. If possible, see a doctor who is familiar with travelers' illnesses, they'll be able to diagnose and treat whatever problem you may have more quickly and accurately than someone who isn't as experienced. And if you're in a foreign country, make sure that any medical care facility you visit is clean and reputable.
 
Nobody wants to deal with getting sick when they're away from home, but sometimes these things happen despite our best efforts. If illness strikes while you're away from home, there are still things that you can do to feel better fast. And with some preparation before you leave (like digitizing important documents), you can increase your chances of staying healthy throughout your travels. So bon voyage, and happy (healthy!) travels!
 
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