Go Beyond

We live in a world of germs — little microscopic critters that can absolutely wreak havoc on your health. Travel presents special challenges by exposing us to types of germs to which our body is unaccustomed. Nothing can ruin a trip quicker than an unexpected bout of diarrhea or an infection or some other health-related matter. Taking some common sense precautions, however, can mitigate the damage that germs can do. Here are some basic precautions that every traveler should observe to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip.

Hands
• Be aware of where you place your hands while traveling.
• Keep in mind that public and airline toilets are breeding grounds for germs.
• Wash your hands often.
• Carry and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Keep your fingernails short.
• Do not put your fingers in your mouth or bite your fingernails.



Feet
• Wear flip-flops when taking a shower.
• Keep your feet fresh with talcum powder.
• Wear shoes suited for your environment/activities to minimize the risk of injuries.
• Consider closed-toed shoes for travel (in the event of emergency landing).

Food
• Ensure that food is well-cooked and served hot.
• Avoid raw or slightly cooked food, seafood, mayonnaise, ice cream, butter, etc.
• Generally avoid food prepared by street vendors.
• If you can peel it you can eat it.
• Breads, tortillas, crackers, biscuits, and baked goods are generally safe.
• Avoid salads.

Water and Beverages
• Stay hydrated.
• Drink bottled water.
• Make certain that the seal on bottled water is not broken.
• Brush your teeth and take any medications with bottled water.
• When necessary, wash food in bottled or boiled water.
• It is generally safer to order drinks without ice.
• Avoid milk products or dairy products that are not pasteurized.
• Do not drink juices made by street vendors.
• Fresh hot coffee and tea are safe to drink.

Miscellaneous
• Avoid contact with local wildlife and stray animals like dogs and cats.
• Don’t swim in dirty or polluted water and do not swallow pool water.
• Do not trust glass tumblers in hotel rooms.

Carry a Basic Travel Kit
• Hand sanitizer.
• Disposable tissues or toilet paper.
• First aid kit (include a personal syringe and needles).
• Bed bug spray (optional).
• Feminine hygiene products.
• Vitamins (optional) to supplement deficiencies in changing diet.