Travel Smart: A Trusted Guide to Staying Healthy Abroad
Dr. Remington and Dr. deLeeuw Approved
Before you Go
- Book your consultation 3-6 months in advance of travelling (if possible): Boggio & Edwards IDA pharmacists will assess your personalized vaccine needs and health risks – some vaccines and medications need to be started well ahead of your trip!
- Bring a travel kit: make sure to grab the essentials at one of our pharmacies!
- Prescription medications for the ENTIRE trip
- Pain relievers (i.e., Tylenol, Advil)
- Motion sickness relief (i.e., Gravol)
- Anti-diarrheals (i.e., Imodium, Pepto-Bismol)
- Antihistamines for allergies (i.e., Benadryl, Reactine, Claritin,)
- Insect repellant with DEET 10-30%
- Electrolytes for rehydration (i.e., Hydralyte)
- Basic first aid items (i.e., band aids, hand sanitizer, alcohol swabs, etc.)
During Travel
- Practice safe food and water habits: BOIL IT, COOK IT, PEEL IT, OR LEAVE IT
- Prevent insect bites: think more than just insect repellant!
- Wear long sleeves and pants (consider insect repellant treated clothing)
- Sleep under mosquito nets in high-risk areas
- Sun protection: pick up a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen at the pharmacy and reapply frequently
- AVOID animal contact: stray animals may seem friendly, but rabies is a serious risk in many countries!
Medication & Health Safety
- Store your medications properly: keep them in original containers and in your carry-on to avoid temperature extremes. Bring an up-to-date medication list with you, as well as the names and contact information for your family doctor and specialists.
- Be aware of local health care access: identify nearby clinics or hospitals in your destination in case of emergency
Returning Home
- Monitor for symptoms after travel: see your doctor or pharmacist if you experience new onset fever, rash, persistent diarrhea, unusual fatigue, or any flu-like symptoms
