Big Plans This Summer? Book a Travel Medicine Appointment Now

Warm weather always brings the urge to get out and explore the world, and for millions, that comes in the form of traveling, whether in the States or overseas. 

A recent survey from travel website The Vacationer indicates that over 80% of American adults plan to go on trips in the summer months, with about 24% making an international journey.

If you’re one of these millions and can’t wait to see the sights, do everything you can now to be as safe as possible, starting with avoiding illnesses that can ruin your plans. Staying healthy on your trip out of the country means making your travel medicine appointment in advance so you’re prepared. 

Summer travelers in and around Chicago, Illinois, who want to stay healthy on their journey can get prepared with the help of our team of physicians at Michigan Avenue Primary Care.

Let’s explore how a travel medicine appointment works, what illnesses it helps you avoid, and other tips to keep you safe.

What is a travel medicine appointment?

This preventive visit to help you avoid illness during your time away starts with a consultation with your physician to review where you’re going and what you expect to do. This information helps us know what possible diseases to vaccinate or otherwise treat you for. 

Every new location provides new adventures but also presents new risks, so knowing the potential infections, travel-related diseases, and environmental factors that may increase your chances of medical problems is crucial for a great trip.

What illnesses can a travel medicine appointment prevent?

Possible illnesses result from a range of factors, such as insect bites, the effects of travel on your body, contaminated food and water, and environmental conditions like weather or altitude changes, mold, and infection from local flora and fauna. 

The types of disease or conditions you get exposed to vary with each location, and include:

• Malaria
• Typhoid fever
• Hepatitis A
• Jet lag
• Motion sickness
• Encephalitis
• Altitude illness
• Blood clots
• Traveler’s diarrhea
• Yellow fever

Your medical and family history also help us decide what medications and vaccinations you need for your trip. 

What tips can help keep me safe abroad?

In addition to the treatments and preventive measures we provide, here are some basic steps to stay healthy while traveling out of the country:

Water safety

It’s important to always stay hydrated, but avoid drinking tap water in developing nations and boil water to kill germs and other dangerous particles. Wash your hands with soap and uncontaminated water. 

While you can use bottled water safely, some bottles are filled with tap water, so be aware. Also, be cautious of ice, which can also be contaminated. 

Food safety

Wash any fruits and vegetables you buy in non-contaminated water and peel them yourself. Hot foods are generally safe, but avoid runny eggs, street vendor food, salsas, salads made from raw ingredients, and unpasteurized dairy products. 

Also avoid uncooked meat, wild game, and seafood to prevent infection.

Avoiding insects

If you're going to warm places where insects that carry infections are present, wear light, protective clothing. 

Use insect repellents like sunscreens and sprays, use mosquito nets, and if you’re camping, tuck your pants into your socks, check for ticks, and use repellent on your clothes and tent. Stay safe on your trip by utilizing these tips and scheduling a travel medicine appointment. 

When you’ve booked your destination, call our office or schedule an appointment online today with our team at Michigan Avenue Primary Care to get yourself ready.