The Top Ten Health Tips for Internatio...( DENVER March 27 /- Michelle Reesm...),Health

DENVER, March 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Michelle Reesman, RN, Executive Director, Passport Health Colorado, says far too many international travelers, from business travelers to the more adventurous types, leave home without taking the basic steps she suggests below. "People need to put the same kind of preparation into their health as they do into their destination choice, passport acquisition or flight plans," Reesman advises.

1) Get advice from a travel health professional. Four to six weeks

before departure, consult a travel medicine specialist for the most

up-to-date immunization, malaria recommendations and consultation.

They can answer your questions and prepare you for a safe and healthy

trip. It's important to get your immunizations early, as some of the

vaccines take time to effectively protect you..

2) Protect yourself from disease-bearing insects. Wear protective

clothing and use products containing 20-30% DEET, the insect repellant

permethrin and bed nets.

3) Never go barefoot, even on the beach.

4) Make sure your water is purified. Do not use tap water when brushing

your teeth.

5) Consume only well-cooked food. Fruits and veggies? Peel it, boil it

or forget it!

6) Pre-fill your prescriptions, they may not be available at your

destination. Take extra in case your trip is extended. In some

countries counterfeit medications can be a problem. Carry medications

in their original packaging and pack in your carry-on luggage.

7) Don't swim in rivers, lakes, ponds and streams. Well-chlorinated

pools and salt water are usually considered safe.

8) Take a basic first aid kit. Include medications for pain relief, such

as ibuprofen and Tylenol, topical preparations for minor skin wounds

and infections, and medications for allergic reactions (Benadryl
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