SOME
MORE TIPS
q
Make sure you leave in good health. Pay a visit to your
dentist for a dental check-up before leaving.
q
Above-mentioned medication is only available on
doctor’s prescription.
q It is essential to take out a good travel assistance insurance.
q Information concerning the safety in the country of destination: http://www.diplomatie.be and http://statbel.fgov.be
q Pay attention to fluids in hand luggage - max 100 cc per bottle
q Safety criteria in traffic should not be any
different from those at home (this certainly applies to the use of alcohol) and
always use the seatbelt in the car (if present).
q Sunbaths should only be taken with
moderation. Protective clothing and head covering are recommended. On the
uncovered skin parts one should put regularly and abundantly suncream
with a high protective factor.
q
Problems that frequently occur with travellers in
developing countries are wound infections and ulcers. Every wound, no
matter how small, should be thoroughly washed and disinfected, followed by the
application of a strong disinfectant cream.
q Other issues you may wish to
discuss with your doctor are : travel sickness (car sickness, etc.), skin
care, heat and sun exposure, bites and stings, problems related to air-travel : aero-otitis
and aero-sinusitis, jet lag, deep venous thrombosis ("deep
phlebitis"), pain and swelling in leg in the days (even weeks)
following long-distance flight, altitude, problems of
altitude sickness, contraception, diving, travelling with children,
travelling when pregnant, travelling with chronic illness, intake of
immunosuppressive medication.
q Dengue & Chikungunya. Dengue fever is quite common in Latin America and Asia, less in Africa; the last years Chikungunya epidemics also emerge in Asia. These are viral infections transmitted by mosquitoes which are active in the day time. Both diseases are characterised by fever and violent muscle pains; Chikungunya fever is characterised by arthritis. Dramatic evolution with blood pressure fall and haemorrhages very seldom occur in Dengue fever, but when treated correctly, the outcome will practically always be favourable. There is no vaccine nor effective medication available. Recovery is most often spontaneous and quick, but long sequels are possible. Paracetamol is the drug of choice to reduce the fever. Prevention = applying mosquito measures during the daytime.
For further information see: www.itg.be - www.travelhealth.be
www.who.int/ith - disease distribution maps.
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In many countries rabies still exists. Avoid
contact with stray dogs, (tame) wild animals and road kills. When bitten by an
animal, wash out the wound with water and soap, and disinfect with isobetadine.
Do not delay consulting a doctor to see whether or not vaccination (with gamma
globulin) is necessary.
See map : www.who.int/ith - disease distribution maps
For
further information see : www.itg.be or www.travelhealth.be
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Schistosomiasis (Bilharziasis) is a worm infestation that may be
contracted by swimming or bathing in contaminated water. It occurs in the major
part of Africa and in limited areas of
See maps per country : http://www.who.int/wormcontrol/documents/maps/country/en
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In extremely rare cases,
it may be useful to get some sterile needles
from your local pharmacist in case you should need an injection on your journey
(+ attestation warranting its possession for medical reasons). It is important to
refuse injections if the medications can be taken orally.