It’s a good idea to learn first aid. Most importantly, you
need to know how you can minimize your risks by taking the following
precautions.
Avoiding bites
·
Use an insect repellent with diethyltoluamide (DEET).This can be
sprayed on exposed skin and lasts several hours. If you are also using
sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent 20 minutes later.
·
Wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts when insects are
biting.
·
Use nets or stay in screened or air-conditioned accommodation.
·
If you are travelling to a high-risk area, consider using
clothing and gear treated with permethrin (mosquito repellent). You can buy
pre-treated clothing and gear.
Be aware
Be mindful of local customs and respect the rules.
·
The way you dress and behave may be regarded as offensive and/or
indecent in many parts of the world. Find out what is acceptable in the
countries you plan to visit. Respect local cultures and customs, dress
appropriately and ask permission before taking photos of people.
·
If travelling alone, ensure someone is always aware of your
itinerary.
·
Do not make yourself an obvious target for criminals. Avoid
displaying money and valuables.
Do not make yourself an obvious target
for criminals.
Common concerns
Even if you are not travelling too far, there are some
health concerns you are likely to face.
Menstruation
If you are still menstruating and will be away for an
extended period, travel may affect your cycle.
If you are not on the contraceptive pill you may experience
irregular bleeding due to hormonal changes as a result of time zone changes or
disrupted routine. This usually settles down.
Irregular bleeding could also indicate pregnancy. If there
is any chance you may be pregnant, you should have a pregnancy test as soon as
possible.
What you can do
Tampons and sanitary pads can be difficult to obtain in some
countries. Make sure you pack enough products for your trip.
If you prefer not to menstruate while travelling, there is
the option of taking the oral contraceptive pill continuously. A hormonal
injection might be another option. Talk to your doctor.
If you are not on
the contraceptive pill you may experience irregular bleeding due to hormonal
changes as a result of time zone changes or disrupted routine.
Thrush
Candida infection or vaginal thrush is common in hot, humid
environments. Wearing tight clothing and synthetic materials can exacerbate the
problem. Antibiotics, including the anti-malarial doxycycline also predispose you
to thrush.
What you can do
Wearing cotton underwear may help prevent thrush. Medication
(peccaries and cream) for the treatment of thrush is not always available so it
might be worth packing some in your medical kit so you can treat promptly.
Cystitis/urinary tract infection
Many women experience cystitis (inflammation of the bladder)
or urinary tract infections when travelling. These infections are most often
caused by bacteria normally found in your colon and rectum.
What you can do
As soon as you suspect you might have cystitis (symptoms
include an urgent need to urinate more frequently, plus urination may be
painful) increase your fluid intake – each time you empty your bladder you wash
out some of the bacteria causing the infection. Simple painkillers and drinking
mixtures that change the acidity of your urine can be helpful. If these
measures don’t do the trick in 24 hours, you’ll need to seek medical advice.
Maintaining good personal hygiene and wearing loose-fitting
clothes and cotton underwear can help prevent these infections.
Wearing
loose-fitting clothes and cotton underwear can help prevent these infections.
