In the post-coronavirus era, it is more important than ever to assess the health risks involved in traveling abroad, both before and during the trip. Proper preparation before traveling is essential, both logistically and health-wise.
Most of us tend to focus on the logistical aspects of the trip such as booking flights and hotels, but it is just as important to pay attention and take the necessary steps to ensure a safe trip. The "Fit For Travel" website, affiliated with the English Health Authority (NHS), highlighted several important steps to consider before traveling:
1. Risk assessment before the trip
Check the health recommendations for the country you are traveling to: the British Health Authority (NHS) "Fit For Travel" website is an excellent source of this information. Take into account your personal health condition: factors such as age, immune system and underlying diseases affect your risk level.
Consult a doctor: a doctor will be able to assess your personal risk level and give you specific recommendations.
2. Risk assessment during the trip
- Be aware of environmental risks: watch out for contaminated food and water, mosquitoes and other insect bites.- Take care of hygiene: wash your hands often and avoid contact with sick people or animals.- Equip yourself with medicines: take with you prescription and non-prescription medicines that you take regularly, as well as a first aid kit.
3. Immunization documentation
Take your vaccination certificate with you: make sure you are vaccinated against common infectious diseases such as malaria and yellow fever.
Additional tips:
- Do not underestimate - purchase travel insurance: travel insurance can cover medical expenses in emergency cases.
- Learn some basic sentences in the local language: this will help you communicate with medical staff in case of need.
- Save the phone number of the Israeli embassy in the country you are traveling to: in case of emergency, you can contact the embassy for assistance.