Travelers need to undertake numerous preparations before embarking on their journey, whether for tourism, work, or visiting relatives and friends. However, some may overlook the assessment of health risks associated with travel, as reported by the "Fit For Travel" website, which follows the English health authority "NHS". The report outlines several steps to consider before traveling, as follows:
1. Assessing health risks related to travel.
2. Evaluating health risks during travel.
3. Keeping a record of previous vaccinations.
**How to Evaluate**
If a person plans to travel abroad, their health needs during travel will depend on individual circumstances, including:
- Destination.
- Duration of the trip.
- Activities during the trip.
**Public Health**
Travelers should read the advice for the country they intend to visit to get information about recommended vaccinations. For example, whether they will need vaccinations against malaria or other potential health risks.
**Medications and Prescriptions**
Travelers should also ensure if they need to bring any medications or treatments that may not be easily accessible in the country they are visiting, and they should carry prescriptions for the medications to present if questioned at customs or in emergencies while seeking treatment in hospitals during travel.
**Vulnerable Groups**
The report identifies vulnerable groups among travelers, including the elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, those with chronic illnesses requiring ongoing treatment, pregnant women, and children.
**8 Weeks Before Travel**
Ideally, health risk assessment procedures should start 6 to 8 weeks before travel, allowing enough time for any vaccinations the traveler may need to become fully effective.
Additionally, travelers should maintain a list of addresses for the nearest emergency departments or treatment centers that provide medical services for their specific medical condition in the cities they plan to visit.
In cases of urgent travel, the report highlights the need to seek medical advice and consult specialized centers in the destination country or the embassy of that country to inquire about any potential outbreaks or seasonal infections during their travel period, as well as precautions to ensure a safe and hassle-free trip.
**Record of Previous Vaccinations**
It is beneficial for travelers to keep a record of any vaccinations they have received in the past, including childhood vaccinations if available. Furthermore, travelers should ensure that they do not need a booster dose of the COVID vaccine to gain immunity against any prevalent variants in the country they are heading to.
