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August Health Tip by Dr. Hahn-Cover

Summer is a time when many of us enjoy vacation time, which may include travel. Experiencing new sights, sounds and flavors is a wonderful opportunity! No one wants to be sick away from home, however, so it is important to think about ways to stay healthy when you travel.

If you anticipate an upcoming trip, particularly an overseas trip, a visit with your doctor in advance will be helpful. We recommend scheduling an appointment at least 4 weeks prior to international travel; you can do so by calling (573) 882-4464. The CDC has excellent reference materials on preparing for international travel, including frequently-updated information specific for your destination, at Yellow Book 2005-6: Table of Contents, Outline View | CDC Travelers' Health. A visit with your doctor is important prior to travel within the United States if you have certain health conditions, especially a history of blood clots, or lung disease requiring oxygen.

If you are on regular prescription medication, check you medicine bottles for an adequate supply at least a week before your vacation. If you need a new prescription, call our refill line at (573) 882-4464. If you will be gone for a prolonged trip, ask your pharmacist about a “vacation override” with your prescription insurance plan, to allow you an adequate supply on your trip. If you are traveling by air, pack your medications in your carry-on luggage, in case you are unintentionally separated from your checked baggage.

Think about over-the-counter medications you commonly use, and bring these along, too. It is best to bring all medications—prescription and over-the-counter—in their original, labeled containers. You may wish to prepare a medical kit for travel. Suggested items can be found at CDC - Yellow Book: [2] Traveler's Health Kit - CDC Travelers' Health.

You may find these additional links helpful:

• A variety of links regarding health and travel: MedlinePlus: Traveler's Health
• Air travel with medical conditions or disabilities: TSA | Transportation Security Administration | Persons with Disabilities & Medical Conditions
• Air travel with medications (including injectable medications): TSA | Transportation Security Administration | Medications
• Immunizations prior to international travel: Doctorsforadults.com: Travel Immunization
• Prevention and treatment of traveler's diarrhea: Traveler's Diarrhea -- familydoctor.org
• Prevention and management of jet lag: CDC - Yellow Book: [6] Jet Lag - CDC Travelers' Health
• Prevention and treatment of motion sickness: CDC - Yellow Book: [6] Jet Lag - CDC Travelers' Health

Have a great trip!
Kristin Hahn-Cover, MD

For more information:
MU Health Sciences Library