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Whether you’re traveling within the country or going abroad, your plans don’t usually include getting sick. However, most people have, or know someone who has, been confined to their hotel room while on vacation. That’s why preparing for the worst will help ensure a more enjoyable getaway.

“Although some people require more precautions, everyone should consider their health when they’re planning to travel,” says Lin Chen, M.D., Director of the Travel Medicine Center at Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School.

Pre-travel vaccinations
Ideally, everyone should be up-to-date with routine vaccinations. Depending on your age and travel destination, you may need to get more specific vaccinations, designed to address certain diseases or deficiencies.

In addition, if you are at an increased risk for complications associated with the 2009 H1N1 virus, you should also consider getting a 2009 H1N1 vaccine. Travelers should optimally receive all their vaccinations at least two weeks prior to their departure.

Pre-travel evaluations
“Children, elderly, pregnant women, adventure travelers, those who have pre-existing health conditions, and travelers who are visiting a destination with known health problems are at an increased risk,” says Dr. Chen. “If you fall into any of these categories, it’s best to seek a pre-travel evaluation.”

Longer flights can also cause complications for those with a history of blood clots and heart and lung conditions. Talk with your physician if you have any of these complications, as these issues need to be addressed on an individual basis prior to traveling.

Prevent a frequent international traveler’s illness
According to the Centers for Disease Control, diarrhea is the most common traveler’s illness with an estimated 10 million affected each year.

Contaminated food and water is the most common source of traveler’s diarrhea. Dr. Chen uses an old adage to help people remember how to prevent the illness: cook it, boil it, peel it, or forget it.

“Always boil water or drink bottled water, cook food thoroughly and peel fruit,” she says. Also, avoid tap water and raw vegetables.

“We often advise people to bring over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications,” Dr. Chen says. “Because this is such a common problem, we may also prescribe an antibiotic for people to carry along for treatment of more severe cases of diarrhea.”

Most people will see a resolution within two to three days as diarrhea often dissipates on its own. However, if you develop diarrhea with a fever, bloody stool or abdominal pain, seek medical care.

“A fever is a red flag that should alert travelers to seek medical care,” Dr. Chen says. “Visiting certain destinations exposes you to infectious diseases that are not prevalent in America, such as typhoid fever and malaria. Immediate treatment is necessary if you become infected with these diseases.”

At the Mount Auburn Hospital Travel Center, patients can learn about destination-specific vaccinations as well as any additional precautions they may need to take. “There are a number of medical concerns to consider when traveling,” says Dr. Chen. “We are happy to provide patients with the information and resources they need for healthy travels.”

For a free Mount Auburn Hospital physician directory, please call us at (617) 499-5094.