There is nothing like an upcoming trip to make you get your life in order. Passport renewals, shopping trips and of course, an important look at your vaccine schedule. If February’s deep freeze didn’t have you running for the sunny hills, March Break may be your perfect excuse to get away. And to get all your health needs up to date.
What you need largely depends on where you’re going, says Dr. Andrew Simor, Sunnybrook’s Head of Microbiology & Infectious Diseases. Although, just walking out your front door lately has many people taking a hard look at their protection against measles. Far from being a disease of the past, measles outbreaks are happening across North America, including locally in Ontario. “The vaccines we have are highly effective but it’s now apparent they are most effective if you have a second vaccination,” says Dr. Simor. It’s assumed people born before 1957 are likely immune from being exposed to measles in childhood. Everyone else needs to make sure they are properly protected.
If you’re planning a Caribbean getaway, Dr. Simor says it’s important to protect again Dengue fever and Chikungunya virus. A quick trip to the drugstore for DEET-containing repellents will go a long way in staving off viral diseases spread through mosquito bites. For a more low-tech option, opt for clothing that covers exposed skin.
For travel to developing countries, Dr. Simor advises protection again Hepatitis A and B. It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor about protection against typhoid, yellow fever and cholera. To avoid gut related issues, stick to bottled water as well as foods you can boil or peel.
And before you eat anything, wash your hands to slash your chances flus and noro-viruses. I just returned from an all-inclusive trip to Mexico, and from the cab door handle to the serving tongs at the resort buffet, you start to realize how many surfaces we all share. And that means germs. And that can derail your hard-earned vacation.
Your pharmacist, family doctor or travel medicine clinic are all great sources of information on travel needs. With a little planning and preparation, your chances of having a healthy getaway increase dramatically. Happy March Break!
