Travel is the general movement of human beings between different geographical areas. Travel can be done with or without baggage, by foot, car, train, plane, boat, truck or other mode of transport, and is either one way to another, or circular trip. Travel may be carried out for pleasure or business. The world has always been at your fingertips and there is no need to fight through mountains, swamps or deserts to get to where you want to go. All it takes is a little planning and preparation to make travel safe, easy and fun.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a global organization that maintains and implements a system to control the spread of diseases. WHO takes into consideration the probability of an outbreak before setting out to travel and gives advice as to what countries should be considered as low risk, high risk or no risk areas, and what precautions travelers need to take to protect themselves against the possibility of an outbreak. Contacts at airports and hotels are generally knowledgeable about the virus and ways to minimize risks. Those travelling to low or no risk areas should contact their local WHO office to get instructions on where to go and how to protect yourself during travel. Contacts at airports can also give advice about quarantine, which is mandatory when travelling to certain countries.
Before leaving for travel you should get vaccinated against some diseases that can be serious during travel. Some of these diseases include malaria, dengue fever, hepatitis A, typhoid and Q fever. You should consult your doctor to find out the best course of treatment to be taken for your specific condition. While in areas where outbreaks of these diseases occur, you should take precautionary measures to avoid catching the disease.
If you have family in Ireland, they will be greatly appreciated if you inform them about your travel plans. They will need to be informed about any scheduled immunizations. In addition, ensure that they know of any locations where outbreaks of diseases occur in Ireland. It is important that they know about the quarantines for travelers so they can protect themselves from potential danger. The information provided will go a long way in assuring your journey is safe.
You can easily visit the WHO’s website for a list of countries where malaria prophylaxis is recommended against: United States, Republic of Tanzania, Australia, Brazil, China, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mexico, Nepal, Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam-Borneo and Indonesia. For those traveling to areas in the southern part of the world such as China, Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia it is recommended that they have a malaria prophylaxis certificate. A reminder to travelers to be aware that the ticks commonly found in areas outside of the tropics may carry the West Nile Virus. This means that all travelers to these regions should get themselves checked immediately for symptoms of the virus.
Having received the required immunizations, it is now time to prepare for other important items needed during travel. Proper packaging is an item that is worth the effort to take seriously. By taking care of your baggage, international travelers will help themselves to a stress-free travel experience.