Guest Post by Jennifer Scott, Spiritfinder.org
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Don’t Get Derailed: What to Do If You Fall Ill Abroad
Traveling can be exciting and rewarding, but getting sick in a foreign place can be stressful, especially if you’re an outdoor adventurer. With new environments and germs, it’s important to take certain precautions to avoid getting sick while traveling. If you do end up getting sick, though, there are steps you can take to ensure a quick recovery and minimize added disruptions to your trip. Read on for some insights from Travel To Little Known Places.
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Wash Surfaces and Hands Often
One of the simplest and most effective ways to avoid getting sick while traveling is by washing your hands regularly. This is especially important when traveling by plane, where you’re near other people and surfaces that could carry germs. Bring hand sanitizer and a safe and natural cleanser with you and use it regularly when soap and water aren’t available. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this can help prevent the spread of germs. And if you become ill, frequent washing helps you avoid making others sick.
Steer Clear of Sick People
Another way to avoid getting sick while traveling is by avoiding contact with sick people. If someone around you appears ill, keep your distance and try not to touch anything they’ve touched. It’s also a good idea to avoid crowded areas and public transportation during peak times when possible. If you’re traveling on a long-haul flight and there are empty seats, ask to be moved away from anyone who appears to be unwell.
Keep a Medical Mask Handy
Airplanes can be particularly germy due to recycled air, so the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention notes wearing a mask can help reduce your exposure to potentially harmful germs. While it might look strange at first, it’s becoming increasingly common for travelers to wear masks during flights. Additionally, if you’re traveling to an area with poor air quality, wearing a mask can help protect you from pollution and other airborne irritants that might challenge your immune system.
Choose Light Exercise (Like Walking) if Possible
You might be surprised to learn that some experts feel it’s beneficial to engage in light exercise when you’re sick, according to Pacer. However, activities like walking can help you keep your airways open and encourage circulation so you feel better and heal more quickly. Hike moderate trails or plug a postal address into a walk score calculator to find areas to stretch your legs. If you’re in a neighborhood or running errands in town, look for a tally of 70 or better.
Find a Pharmacy If You Need Medication
If you do end up falling ill while traveling, it’s important to have access to medications. Research the nearest pharmacy in advance, so you know where to go if you need medication. If you’re traveling to a foreign country, make sure you’re aware of any language barriers that might hinder your ability to communicate your needs effectively. Making a note of how to ask for medication or medical assistance in the foreign language of the country you are visiting could become important.
If You’re on Business, Ask to Participate Remotely
Business travelers are especially prone to getting sick due to the stress and lack of sleep that often come with business trips. If you start feeling ill, consider staying in your accommodations and participating in meetings remotely. This not only prevents you from spreading your illness to others but also allows you to rest and recover at the same time. Other meeting space options to consider are a hotel meeting space, a coffee shop or restaurant, or the great outdoors. Aim for a space with ample airflow, and avoid getting into your colleagues’ personal space.
Politely Invite Colleagues to Reschedule
If you’re traveling for work and too sick to do anything, it may become necessary to move certain events. Make it easy to reschedule meetings with a quick note that also adds a professional touch. Simple and straightforward, let them know you’re under the weather and make other arrangements, all in one fell swoop.
Power Up for Travel
In case of a health or other emergency, it’s important to stay connected with loved ones and medical professionals back home. Make sure your phone is charged and roaming enabled so that you can reach out for help if needed. Campers should keep plenty of lantern-related materials handy, along with blankets and wet weather supplies. It’s also a good idea to research local emergency numbers before you travel, so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
Keep Medical Data Secured with PDFs
In today’s digital age, using online PDF tools to combine medical files and other documents into a single, smaller file has become increasingly popular and convenient. With these tools, travelers no longer need to carry bulky stacks of paper medical records with them on their trips.
Instead, they can easily scan and upload all their important documentation, and even convert files like Microsoft Word or Excel to PDF files and save it all as one organized document (this deserves a look). This makes it easy to access their medical information from anywhere in the world, whether they’re visiting a doctor or seeking emergency care. Using online PDF tools is a great way to stay organized and prepared while traveling, allowing for a hassle-free experience.
To avoid getting sick while traveling, follow these steps: wash your hands often, avoid sick individuals, wear a mask when needed, and organize your medical info. Keep your phone charged and know the location of the nearest pharmacy in case of an emergency. If on a business trip, consider working remotely to minimize risk. Don’t get derailed – falling ill while travelling abroad is no fun. With preparation and care, you can stay healthy while on the move.
Guest Post by Jennifer Scott, Spiritfinder.org
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