Travelers’ Health- Global Health
3.06.2018
Thanks to globalization and technology, mobility around the world has become very rampant and can happen in a matter of hours. Travelling internationally has the capacity to pose various risks to people’s health, depending on the health status of the traveler, the health conditions of people encountered in the course of the journey and that of the people in the country being traveled to. Some travelers may experience unexpected and substantial fluctuations in altitude, humidity, microbial biome, and temperature, which can result in changes in their health status. Furthermore, detrimental changes such as poor ventilation, hygiene, accommodation, water supply, sanitation and medical services encountered during travel can result in serious health risks. For these reasons, international travelers should always be careful and concerned about their health and safety especially because of the increased likelihood to contract infections or diseases that may be uncommon in their home country.
Most countries have resources for travelers which gives important information on current endemics, epidemics and pandemics in other countries as well as how to access international health facilities and remain safe and healthy during the travel period. In the US and Canada, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provide lots of information and resources for travelers. These resources are important to review and seriously consider before embarking on any journey internationally. Some of the resources that may be available in various countries include:
- Notices
Health notices outline potential health risks in different countries to travelers and recommend ways to avoid or reduce them. Notices may also provide country-specific information on safety and security, local laws, customs, entry requirements, health conditions and other important travel issues.
- Vaccinations and travel health kit
A health care provider may recommend vaccination against one or more diseases before travel, depending on the destination. Travelers are encouraged to visit their doctors before travel and to carry a basic travel health kit in case of emergencies, irrespective of the travel destination.
- Clinic and medical care in other countries
Medical practices, health insurance, access to healthcare and services, health standards and infection control measures are usually different for various countries. Travellers should be well informed about how these factors differ in the countries they’re travelling to, and what to do to remain healthy and safe.
- Foods and drinks
Food poisoning, flu and travelers’ diarrhea are some of the most common forms of illness in travelers. These can be prevented by avoiding unfamiliar foods or trying them with caution and ensuring meals are cooked and eaten following proper hygiene
- Travelling with special needs
Pregnant women, children, older people and persons with disabilities may require special care, different travel needs and medication during travel. When applicable, travelers are encouraged to read up on the information necessary to minimize risks and stay healthy while travelling.