Hadassah Louis:
Being on a journey is exciting. The worst thing that can happen is getting sick far away from home. It brings with it the feeling of helplessness. It is therefore important to prep in advance to save yourself a hefty medical bill or the struggle of getting the right medicine simply because locals speak a language foreign to you. If you are a woman and alone a journey, the vulnerability increases manifold. Hence, it is important that you prepare a bit before you set off on a journey, to ensure your well-being and safety.
1.DO YOUR RESEARCH
What location are you travelling to and is it prone to particular disease. These are some things you have to know if you are to prepare on preventive measures. In any case research how to get to a hospital or emergency beforehand. It may prove useful on your journey.
2. CARRY YOUR MEDICINE
It is possible to be ill and only develop the symptoms while airborne or maybe your body may be reacting to the sudden change in climate, in any case carry some useful medicine or painkillers that can boost your immune system should need arise. Do not drink the medicine should there be no need to but always seek the advice of a professional doctor instead of administering self-help. Also be wary of administering your medicine to other people without the consent of a health professional – you may just make it worse.
3. GET TRAVELERS INSURANCE
Some travellers insurance may seem costly or even burdensome but medical attention away from home can prove even more burdensome and that’s made worse because you’re not in your best shape either. Insurance gives you the confidence that someone has your back should you fall ill. However, health insurance is not a free pass to recklessness that can lead to disease.
4. AVOID ALLERGENS
Are you allergic or have some health related problems such as diabetes, asthma or anemia. Then it is important to keep in mind your health condition when travelling. Carry your anti-allergens and medicines near you all the time. If travelling with someone or in a group, let them know about your condition so that they may know what to do if you suffer a health attack.
5.KEEP CLEAN HANDS
Practicing hygiene is very important in day to day life activities but it is very crucial when in a foreign land that your body isn’t used to. Wash your hands with soap and carrying a hand sanitizer is very useful but apply it in a manner that won’t prove offensive errm, in private that is, you don’t want to appear snobbish.
6.STAY IN A CLEAN PlACE
The room and bed you will be sleeping in should be clean and comfortable. A hard bed after a long trip can give a headache. Use a clean bathroom and wear flip flops when bathing if you are not sure about the sanitation. Use your own soap and bath clothe as well. Avoid dirty toilets and clean properly after you use one. Avoid sharing towels.
7.AVOID OVERZEALOUS FOOD TASTING
Be confident about the food you are eating and the way it was prepared. If you are not sure about a certain food, best not to eat it. If trying out new foods, do it one specialty at a time. Do not try many different foods at the same time because should you get sick, you would not know what caused the symptoms.
8.DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
It is important to drink plenty of water even before the trip. Even though this may lead to multiple toilet visits, it will help cleanse your body immune system and replenish you. Tired of drinking the water, opt for fresh fruits and make certain they are well cleaned before you eat them.
9.REST
Giving your body a chance to recuperate is very important in fighting disease. Resting before the trip, during the trip and when tired will lower the chances of your body getting ill just to force you to rest.
10.LEARN BASIC FIRST AID
Being equipped with basic first aid knowledge can give you the confidence and knowledge needed to prevent a situation from getting worse. Get basic tips online or go for a First Aid to be mentally equipped on how to administer First Aid should the need arise.
11.BE CAUTIOUS
Always be cautious while interacting with people. Do not disclose too much about yourself. If you are staying in a hotel, ensure that the locks are working perfectly fine. Keep emergency helpline numbers near you; put them into your speed dial list. Carry simple self-defense weapons such as a small bottle of pepper spray, just in case. However, do note that it could be illegal in some places. Always be aware of local laws!
Hope these tips helped you. Tell us about your experience with health when abroad, did you fall sick or someone you know had a health scare. What did you do? Like and share.
About the Author:
Hadassah is a freelancer in Communication Media and Non Profit Management. She is Founder and Project Manager of SAFIGI Outreach Foundation in Zambia, a youth led volunteer organization working to advance safety for girls via Safety Education.
Her goal in life is to attain overall freedom and ultimately be a delegate for peace and conflict resolution. When she is not overwhelmed with ever impending deadlines, she can be found working on her manuscript, or taking pictures for her blog [www.themisguidedhermit.com]. She loves practicing healthy living and volunteering for worthy causes.
About SAFIGI:
SAFIGI Outreach Foundation Ltd is a not for profit organization based in Zambia with a vision to raise a generation where girls are empowered, equipped and fulfilled in every aspect of their life, for the development of the entire world. To know more about SAFIGI’s goals and activities, visit http://www.safetyfirstforgirls.org