We commonly hear “I have traveled all over the world without a problem, so why spend extra time and money on travel shots and health preparation?” In reality, traveling abroad poses many health risks. Going on a trip without adequate preparation is, essentially, gambling…you may be fine most of the time, but….not always. There are many health-related issues that can come up during a trip ANYWHERE in the world that should be addressed BEFORE starting your travels.
AM I PROPERLY IMMUNIZED?
We figure out which vaccinations you need based on WHERE you are going, WHAT you will be doing at your destination, HOW LONG you will be there, and what MEDICAL PROBLEMS you may have that affect the shots you receive and the diseases you to which you may be susceptible. We also review your VACCINATION HISTORY (if available) and may check IMMUNE TITERS to make certain you are immune to common diseases. The CDC is an excellent reference source, but the CDC vaccine recommendations were meant to be used together with a detailed evaluation of your specific trip details and your health.
WHAT MEDICATIONS DO I NEED TO PREVENT ISSUES WHILE I AM AWAY?
What prescriptions do you need to prevent disease or treat disease/medical issues if they arise (malaria, traveler’s diarrhea, altitude illness, etc.)
HOW DO I PROTECT AGAINST ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RISKS?
We review insect, food, water, and wildlife exposure precautions that are not only specific to your trip/itinerary, but your specific activities on that trip.
HOW WILL MY SPECIFIC MEDICAL ISSUES (if any) IMPACT MY TRIP?
Is your immune system impaired? Is your oxygen level lower than average? Do you have a heart issue? Might traveler’s diarrhea, altitude, respiratory illness, and the like affect you more than the average traveler? What accommodations need to be made? Do your medications need to be adjusted (in consultation with your regular doctor, if available.)
HOW CAN I FIND HEALTHCARE ABROAD?
What do I do if I become ill or injured abroad? Can I call the person who gave me my travel shots? How do I research my destination country (ies) healthcare facilities in advance?
WHAT SAFETY AND SECURITY RISKS ARE THERE ON THIS PARTICULAR TRIP?
Are there protests, strikes, significant crime, ongoing or impending natural disasters, or other potential risks I may encounter?
WHAT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ILLNESS SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN I RETURN HOME?
Who will I call and how long after my trip do I need to be concerned?
Dr. Klapowitz of Travel Medicine Consultations can help answer all of these questions and more, along with providing the essential travel vaccinations NYC residents need before embarking on their trips. Schedule an appointment today or feel free to call for more information.