Dr. Le Thi Truc Phuong, a medical specialist of VNVC Vaccination System, advises that maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for travelers to enjoy their trip. During peak summer tourism season, which occurs from late April to August, hot weather can create ideal conditions for bacteria and viruses to rapidly grow and cause gastrointestinal diseases. Traveling can disrupt daily habits, making it challenging to control food quality and safety, which can lead to digestive issues. To prevent digestive diseases and stay healthy while traveling, Dr. Phuong recommends five key strategies.
Firstly, getting vaccinated is critical as there are various pathogens like Salmonella typhi, E. coli, and rotavirus that can harm the digestive tract. Vaccines for diseases like Rotavirus, hepatitis A, cholera, and typhoid are available and can significantly reduce the risk of infection. It is recommended to consult a doctor for an appropriate vaccination schedule, especially for children.
Secondly, maintaining personal hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of pathogens. Handwashing with soap or antiseptic water before and after eating or using the toilet or touching surfaces has been shown to reduce diarrhea cases significantly. Travelers should also avoid sharing personal items like cups or utensils with others to avoid cross-contamination of pathogens.
Thirdly, choosing safe foods is crucial in preventing foodborne illnesses such as salmonellosis or norovirus. It’s essential to be cautious of food hygiene practices in crowded places and consider bringing some stored food for additional nutrition or snacks when traveling by plane or train where meals may not be readily available at all times.
Fourthly, paying attention to the water source is advisable when traveling abroad as contaminated water sources may cause gastrointestinal issues such as cholera or amoebic dysentery.
Lastly, travelers should pack essential medications for gastrointestinal issues such as anti-diarrheal agents like loperamide or metoclopramide as well as fever-reducing medication like acetaminophen.
In conclusion, traveling requires careful planning and attention to one’s health concerns such as maintaining a healthy digestive system by practicing good hygiene habits like handwashing regularly and choosing safe foods while avoiding raw or improperly stored dishes.
