Things You'll Need:
- Prescription medication and written prescription
- Over-the-counter medication
- Liquid hand sanitizer or wipes
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Step 1
Get any recommended vaccines or preventative medication before traveling abroad. Contact your physician, or visit a travel health website, to learn if there are any recommendations for your travel destination. Common vaccines that keep travelers healthy include hepatitis and tetanus. Find out if you should take anti-malaria pills on your trip, it's advisable for travel to certain countries abroad.
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Step 2
Bring an adequate supply of prescription medication, and a little extra if you can. Carry a copy of your written prescriptions and physician's contact information (name, fax number and phone number) in case you need an emergency refill. Also bring a supply of over-the-counter medications to relieve minor aches and pains, diarrhea, heartburn and rashes.
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Step 3
Stay hydrated. Drink a lot of water each day (soda and beer don't count). Bottled water is the safest.
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Step 4
Pay attention to what you eat when you travel abroad. Some countries do not have the same food handling and storage guidelines as the United States. Don't eat perishable food that is sitting in a non-refrigerated area. Check the food to see if it looks and smells fresh.
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Step 5
Wash you hands frequently with soap, especially before eating. In some countries you may not find soap in all restrooms, so bring liquid hand sanitizer or hand wipes.
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Step 6
Use common sense. Avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and cold. Don't consume too much alcohol. Get plenty of rest to keep your immune system strong.
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Step 7
Take extra precautions if you plan to visit developing countries or participate in adventure travel. For example, some waterways contain parasites that can make you very ill. Do in depth Internet research and ask the tour operator about any health hazards you may face.
