Stay Healthy During Vacation

The holiday season is a time for family gatherings and travel. However, traveling comes with challenges to staying healthy. In crowded public spaces and unpredictable weather, you face increased exposure to germs, stress, and fatigue. However, staying healthy is not difficult.

With a little preparation and attention, you can enjoy your vacation without sacrificing your well-being.

Here are several tips to help you stay healthy during the holidays.

1. Get a health check 4–8 weeks before departure

A health check is essential for evaluating overall health and detecting potential illnesses or diseases early.

Get a checkup at least a month before your travel. This will also help you receive vaccines for your destination. If you have any health concerns, consult a doctor beforehand.

2. Get vaccinated

Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure for travelers:

• Flu vaccine: The best way to avoid infection and spreading the flu.
• Typhoid vaccine: Typhoid fever caused by Salmonella typhi can lead to high fever, headache, nausea, and severe diarrhea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), typhoid vaccination should be given at least one to two weeks before traveling to high-risk countries, such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, where typhoid cases are still prevalent.
• Yellow fever vaccine: If you travel to Africa, Europe, or South America, get the yellow fever vaccine.
• Meningitis vaccine: Mandatory for those undertaking the Hajj or Umrah.
• Japanese encephalitis vaccine: Recommended for travelers visiting Bangladesh, China, India, Vietnam, Pakistan, or Nepal, where the virus is prevalent. Get vaccinated at least one month before departure.
• Hepatitis A vaccine: Recommended for travel to areas with poor sanitation or less hygienic food. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended and should be given two weeks before the trip.
• Hepatitis B vaccine: Suggest visits to densely populated regions such as Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, or South America.

3. Eat healthy

Maintaining a healthy diet while traveling can be challenging. It’s tempting to try various local cuisines, and that's okay – but be selective. Avoid food or drinks at risk of contamination, as they can cause diarrhea or other health issues.

Try to enjoy local dishes in small portions. That way, you can still taste the deliciousness without overdoing it. As a balance, choose lighter and more nutritious foods to complement your body's needs. Also, practice mindful eating. Enjoy each bite slowly so that you feel satisfied without overeating.

Remember, choosing the wrong food can ruin your vacation. Maintain a balance so that the trip remains enjoyable and the body stays healthy.

4. Avoid germs

Most infectious viruses and bacteria are transmitted when you touch a contaminated surface. For example, touching the toilet door handle of an airplane, train, or other public vehicle and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth might cause illness.

So wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes after touching something that someone who is sick may have touched.

Use disinfectant wipes to clean armrests, tables, and other surfaces.

Keep your distance from anyone who appears sick or is coughing or sneezing.

5. Stay hydrated

Hydration is essential for healthy travel, especially during flights. The mucous membranes in your nose are part of your body’s natural defense against bacteria and viruses.

The air in airplane cabins is very dry; dehydration and dry air can dry out your nasal passages, which can make you more susceptible to cold sneezes from other passengers.

Be sure to bring bottled water with you when traveling and avoid drinks that contain caffeine and alcohol.

6. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep strengthens your immune. Ensure you get a good night’s rest before your trip. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule during your travels.

7. Using sunscreen

Protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreen doesn’t just apply to hot weather—you can get sunburned even in cloudy.

Are you ready for a vacation? Remember, your health is the most valuable asset. With the right preventive measures, you can enjoy your trip worry-free. Happy trip planning, and remember to keep hygiene and a healthy lifestyle wherever you go!

If you need vaccinations or health checks before traveling, visit the GWS Medika Clinic, a trusted health clinic in Jakarta. The GWS Medika Clinic is ready to help you make your trip more enjoyable with a healthy and fit body.

May your vacation be enjoyable and leave you with wonderful memories with your loved ones!