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://diplomatie.belgium.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.

- 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

-  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 South America and the Near and Far East. Stagnant water offers the greatest risk (especially in dams), though contamination may also occur in rivers (large or small, fast- or slow running water). No preventive medication or vaccine exists against the parasite, so bathing or swimming in fresh water should be avoided. However, if you do swim in potentially contaminated water, a check-up is necessary after 3 months (serology, eosinophily). Rarely serious complications may occur within the first months post-exposure (blood in the urine, paralysis), in which case you should immediately consult a medical doctor. www.who.int/ith - disease distribution maps.
See maps per country : http://www.who.int/wormcontrol/documents/maps/country/en

- 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.