Travelers Health

The change in air pressure during takeoff and landing can lead to discomfort in the ears of small children. Older children and adults should be instructed to swallow, yawn or chew gum. You can also pinch your nostrils together and try to push air out through the nostrils. Feeding an infant during takeoff and landing may help. Those with a recent ear infection, it are probably safe for them to fly when under treatment and no longer having ear pain, headaches or sinus discomfort.

Before you travel in a foreign country, you should understand the rules of the road. Driving in many developing countries can be very dangerous because of poor road and vehicle conditions, a lack of travel regulations and unsafe driving practices. If you plan to drive, learn the local rules. Automobile rental agencies in many foreign countries do not have car seats so be sure to take along a car seat for any infants and toddlers. Have your children ride in the back seat and speak up if your driver is driving too fast.

If you or your child develops diarrhea, the most important thing is to prevent dehydration. Consider bringing along pedialyte or oral rehydration salts. These should be available at pharmacies.

You should apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater to your child's skin. It should be reapplied frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.

You should avoid swimming in any fresh water bodies such as rivers, ponds or lakes, particularly in Asia and Africa. The water may have parasites. Swimming in pools and the ocean should be safer.

By taking a few food- and water-related precautions when traveling to a developing country, you can enjoy your trip instead of worrying. Here are some precautions to minimize your risk of developing a gastrointestinal illness as well as typhoid fever or Hepatitis A:

• Drink and use only bottled beverages—even for brushing your teeth
• Purify your water by boiling it, using a filtering system with iodine or chlorine, or using a UV light source
• Avoid ice
• Avoid raw vegetables and salads. Only eat cooked vegetables and fruit that can be peeled
• Avoid unpasteurized dairy products and raw meat, poultry and seafood
• Avoid food or drinks from street vendors and buffets as well as open sauces and condiments

The vaccines you need depend on your destination. One of our specialists will meet with you to review your itinerary, current medical conditions and medications. Based on this information, we’ll recommend certain vaccines.

Yes, we offer COVID-19 testing for out-of-state travel requirements.

Restrictions are constantly changing, so be sure to review the latest requirements before leaving the country. While many countries require you to be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to entry, some do not. Some of these may require a negative PCR or rapid antigen test.

You should get your vaccinations one month before your trip, as it may take several weeks to achieve full immunity. However, some vaccines require a second dose and more time for the immunity to take effect. We advise you to schedule a consultation as soon as possible.

The physician will discuss any vaccine-specific risks. Generally, reactions are mild and may include fever or rash at the injection site. Occasionally, vaccines can cause an allergic reaction.

Be very cautious about drinking water in developing countries. Avoid ice cubes and try not to ingest water when showering or brushing your teeth. Instead, use bottled water.

If you are in an area with a risk of malaria, wear clothing with long sleeves, pants and hats, and use netting around your bed. An insect repellent with DEET is the most effective for preventing bites.

Some, but not all, insurance companies will cover vaccines, booster shots and medications needed for traveling. You should always check with your insurance company first.