Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Diabetics
Wear an obvious medical alert necklace or bracelet, or carry an ID card stating your con-
dition (preferably with a translation into the local language). Take enough insulin for your
stay, although it is unlikely that a GP will give you the amount of medication needed for a
full year of travelling - three to six months is usually their limit, in which case, be prepared
to buy insulin abroad and at full price. Ring the BDA Careline to make sure the brand of
insulin you use is available in the particular country you are planning to visit. Your medica-
tion must be kept in the passenger area of a plane, not the aircraft hold where it will freeze.
Diabetes UK, www.diabetes.org.uk
Careline: +44 (0) 845 120 2960, weekdays 9am-5pm.
Email: careline@diabetes.org.uk
Diabetes UK produces a general travel information booklet as well as specific travel packs
for about 70 countries.
Diarrhoea
By far the most common health problem to affect travellers abroad is travellers' diarrhoea.
This is difficult to avoid but it is sensible to do the best you can to prevent problems. High-
risk food/drinks include untreated tap water, shellfish, unpasteurised dairy products, salads,
peeled/prepared uncooked fruit, raw/undercooked meat and fish. Take a kit to deal with the
symptoms (your doctor or nurse should be able to advise on this). Remember to take plenty
of 'safe' drinks if you are ill and re-hydration salts to replace lost vitamins and minerals.
If vomiting and/or diarrhoea continue for more than four to five days or you run a fever,
have convulsions or breathing difficulties (or any unusual symptoms), get someone to call
a doctor straight away. Seek advice on the best doctor to call; the British embassy or a five-
star hotel in the area may be able to offer some advice here.
To help lower the risk of diarrhoea when you're away, prepare your body before you go.
For a couple months before you leave, include yogurt in your diet. It's filled with 'good'
bacteria and probiotics, both of which can help regulate your digestive system whilst you're
away.
Eyes
Contact lens wearers should stock up on cleaning fluid before going, especially if venturing
off the beaten track; but if you're going away for a long period it might be worth switching
to disposable types so there's less to carry - ask your optician for advice.
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