Going Prepared
Here are some things for you to check on before you travel:
IMMUNIZATIONS
Each country has policies regarding immunizations. Required vaccinations depend upon your destination, duration of stay and past immunization history. Check with a local travel health clinic or physician to determine the required and recommended vaccinations, and plan for the shots well in advance of departure for adequate time to obtain maximum protection.
TRAVEL HEALTH KIT
Regardless of your destination, you should pack a Travel Health Kit to prevent or treat common travel ailments. Your kit should include:
- Antiseptic soap
- Adhesive tape and adhesive bandages
- Antibacterial ointment
- Antidiarrheal medication, such as IMODIUM®
- ASA-free pain reliever, such as TYLENOL® acetaminophen
- Cotton swabs
- Cold medication, such as TYLENOL® COLD
- Eye protection/sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Sleep aid, such as SIMPLY SLEEP® Caplets
- Sunscreen
- Thermometer
- Any prescription medications you take
MEDICAL INFORMATION CARD
Just in case, create a medical information card with: your name, address and social insurance number; insurance company name, address and policy number; health insurance number; emergency contact name and phone number; blood type; drug allergies; list of current medications (both brand name and generic), and doctor's name, address and phone number. Carry the card with you at all times.
LOCATING A DOCTOR
Finding proper medical care outside Canada can be a difficult and frustrating process. For help locating hospitals or English/French-speaking doctors, you can:
- Consult the Canadian Embassy or Canadian Consulate in the country you're visiting.
- Call the International Association for Medical Assistance for Travellers, a worldwide organization of hospital and medical facilities where English and French is spoken and doctors/medical staff agree to provide medical care to travellers in distress.
- Seek a university-affiliated teaching hospital in a major city.
- Secure names of doctors before leaving Canada.
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
The following organizations are ready resources for immediate travel assistance and medical information:
Centers for Disease Control International Travellers' Hotline 404-332-4559
International Association of Medical Assistance to Travellers 716-754-4883
Consular Emergency Services and Travel Information - Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade 800-267-6788
Passport Office - Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade 819-994-3560
SPECIAL TRAVELLERS
Individuals who are pregnant or have a chronic illness, such as hypertension or diabetes should review their itineraries with a physician before leaving, just to be safe. Health-care professionals recommend that you:
- Be conservative when choosing what to eat and drink to guard against infections
- Clearly label prescriptions and pack a second set in case of lost luggage or unexpected delay
- Carry a doctor's letter or medical information card that explains your medical condition and lists medications by their generic name
- Do not overexert yourself
