International Travel Prep: Protect Your Health Abroad

With international travel by Americans expected to reach new highs in 2025, many are eagerly planning their next overseas adventure. But before you dive into crafting the perfect itinerary, be sure to make your health a top priority on your pre-travel checklist.

From traveler’s diarrhea and sunburn to respiratory infections and insect-borne diseases, overseas adventures can come with unexpected health risks. Dr. Adam Brady, infectious disease specialist at Samaritan Infectious Disease – Corvallis, encourages travelers to consider potential health challenges just as carefully as they plan sightseeing stops.

“Depending on your destination, you may encounter diseases that are rare in the U.S. but still common elsewhere,” Dr. Brady said.

Start With Trusted International Travel Resources

Dr. Brady recommends visiting the CDC’s Traveler’s Health website to check for health advisories and vaccine recommendations specific to your destination. Then, schedule a visit to a travel clinic—ideally at least a month before departure.

“At Samaritan’s International Travel Clinic, we offer specialized vaccines like typhoid, yellow fever and tick-borne encephalitis that aren’t widely available,” Dr. Brady noted.

During your visit, you can also discuss your itinerary and get personalized advice to stay healthy abroad.

7 Smart International Travel Health Tips

1. Protect Against Respiratory Illness

Airports, planes and crowded tourist spots can increase your risk of respiratory infections. Dr. Brady advises:

• Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.
• Stay hydrated, especially on long flights.
• Consider wearing a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces—especially if you’re at higher risk for severe illness.

2. Be Cautious with Food

Food-borne illnesses can quickly ruin a trip. To reduce your risk:

• Avoid lukewarm or raw foods.
• Skip street vendor meals unless you’re confident in their hygiene.
• Wash your hands before handling food, and rinse produce with clean water.

3. Stick to Safe Drinks

Contaminated water is a common culprit behind traveler’s diarrhea.

• Drink only factory-sealed bottled or canned beverages.
• Avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s made from safe water.
• Hot drinks like tea or coffee are usually safe if served steaming.

4. Guard Against Insect-Borne Diseases

Mosquitoes, ticks and other insects can carry serious illnesses like malaria, dengue and Zika.

• Research which diseases are common at your destination.
• Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants.
• Get any recommended vaccines or medications in advance.

5. Review Your Health Insurance

Not all health plans cover international care. Before you go:

• Check your policy’s coverage abroad.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance with medical coverage.
• Know where the nearest hospitals or clinics are at your destination.

6. Pack a Travel Health Kit

In addition to your regular prescriptions, bring:

• Antidiarrheal medication.
• Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen).
• Hand sanitizer.
• Sunscreen (SPF 15+).
• N95 masks.
• First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic cream, etc.).

7. Photocopy Important Documents

Keep digital or paper copies of:

• Passport.
• Health insurance card.
• Prescriptions.
• Vaccine records.

Also, carry emergency contact numbers, including your primary care provider.

Final Thought: Pack Your Patience

Travel is thrilling, but it can also be unpredictable. Along with your essentials, bring a good dose of patience, empathy and humor. These qualities can be just as important as your passport when navigating the unexpected.