The CDC says preparing now will make future travel easier. Provided by: CDC
(CDC) — Before you travel, make sure you're prepared to stay safe and healthy while traveling.
– Check your destination's CDC webpage to find out what vaccines and medications are required and what illnesses and health risks are a concern at your destination.
– Make sure you are up to date on all your routine vaccines. Regular vaccination protects against infectious diseases such as measles, which can spread rapidly in unvaccinated populations. Many diseases that can be prevented through routine vaccination are not common in the United States but are still common in other countries.
know your health status
– Make an appointment with your health care provider or travel health professional at least one month before departure. Helps you obtain destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. You can get more specific advice and recommendations by discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your health care provider.
Please share the following information about yourself or your trip with your provider:
– Special conditions such as pregnancy, allergies, or chronic health problems.
– Destinations on your itinerary.
– Type of accommodation (hotel, hostel, short-term rental).
– Type of trip (cruise, business, adventure travel).
– Timing and length of the trip.
– Planned activities.
Take recommended medications as directed. If your doctor has prescribed medication, take it as directed before, during, and after your trip. Counterfeit medicines are common in some countries, so carry only medicines you bring from home, and be sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip and additional medicines in case your trip is delayed. Click here for more information about traveling abroad with medicines.
Plan for the unexpected. Unexpected problems may arise during your trip. Learn what you can do before you go to protect yourself and your travel companions.
Get travel insurance. Check whether your health insurance covers medical care abroad. Travelers are typically responsible for paying for hospital and other medical expenses out-of-pocket in most destinations. Make plans to seek treatment abroad in case you need it. Consider purchasing additional insurance that covers medical and emergency evacuation, especially if you are traveling to a remote location.
There are many different types of travel insurance, including trip cancellation insurance, travel health insurance, and medical evacuation insurance. Click here to learn more about travel insurance.
Enroll in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment ProgramExternal link (STEP). Check and monitor travel advisories for your destination. Registration also allows the U.S. Department of State External Link to know your whereabouts in the event of serious legal, medical, or financial issues during your trip. If there is an emergency at home, STEP can also help friends and family contact you.
Prepare for emergencies. Leave copies of important travel documents (itinerary, contact information, credit cards, passport, school documents, etc.) at home in case they are lost during your trip. Make sure you have someone at home who you know to contact in case of an emergency. Always carry your emergency contact information with you.
