by Heather Colley

Created on: August 03, 2009

Don't drink the water! How many times have you heard this in regards to traveling to other countries, notably Mexico or other southern locations? Yet you wonder how the locals can drink it and not fall ill. The simple answer is because they are used to the organisms in it, and you are not.

Anytime you travel abroad, it is advisable to become inoculated against various diseases. This is because your immune system is not up to par against the diseases you might come in contact with. There are three types of vaccinations: recommended, required, and routine. These will be explained in more detail.

A recommended vaccination is geared toward illnesses you may encounter in your travels. A good example of this would be one for the H1N1 virus (if one were available). These vaccinations are more important during specific times of the year, when these illnesses are more prevalent.

A required vaccine must be taken no matter what. Just as many of our united states require vaccinations for school-aged children, so other countries can demand that travelers receive certain vaccinations. These vaccines would include for malaria or meningitis.

Routine vaccinations include ones received as children, such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Polio, and DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), Some adults did not receive these vaccines when young, but would be required to have them if traveling beyond American borders.

If you know you will be leaving the country, a visit to your doctor at least six weeks before your departure date is in order. Let your doctor know which countries you are traveling to so he knows which vaccines are necessary. It usually takes 4-6 weeks for the vaccine to become effective. During this visit, a physical exam can be performed to ensure you're healthy. Information about prevention and care of certain illnesses can be discussed.

Your medical history is very important. If you have an autoimmune disease such as HIV or diabetes, it is imperative to take care to take your medication regularly and use caution against contracting anything. Pregnancy is also a concern. Check with your doctor before traveling. Remember to stop every two hours to walk around and exercise. Lack of movement can cause blood to pool and not circulate well, leading to swelling of the lower extremities, and in worse case scenarios, blood clots. There are many other concerns for pregnant women, so make sure to discuss them thoroughly with your OBGYN.

Not all countries provide the same medications, so be sure to pack enough of your medication to take with you. Be sure to carry up to a week's worth of medication in your carry-on luggage in the event your stored baggage is lost. Also have a list of your medications on your person. Include a record of your immunizations and your medical history in case of illness.

Taking the time to learn the requirements of the country you are visiting will go a long way to ensure an uneventful experience. It is hard to enjoy the beauty of the world if you are worrying and fretting over the little things. A good website to visit first is http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/vaccinations.aspx where you can find a wealth of information at your fingertips. Bon voyage!

Learn more about this author, Heather Colley.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.