Travel Medicine

Before you leave the United States, make an appointment to see a travel medicine specialist at Essentia Health. You’ll receive education and preventive care to protect your health during your travels. When you return home, count on our team to treat any symptoms of travel-related illnesses.

When to Get Care

To get the best health-related recommendations, you should see a travel medicine doctor several weeks before your trip.  Bring the following to your appointment:

• Your travel plans, including layover locations
• Your medical history
• A current list of prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements you take
• Questions you have about traveling safely

Travel Medicine Services

The services you will need depend on where you’re traveling to. During your appointment, your doctor will discuss the following:

• How to avoid jet lag, motion or altitude sickness, and other conditions
• Specific health concerns in the area you’re traveling to
• How to prevent infections
• How to manage a chronic condition while you travel
• Transporting medications safely
• Planning ahead for an illness or injury

Travel Vaccinations

Vaccines help your body’s immune system fight certain illnesses. Depending on where you’re traveling to, your doctor may recommend vaccines for:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Japanese encephalitis
• Meningococcal infection
• Typhoid fever
• Yellow fever

How to Stay Healthy When You Travel

To protect your health when visiting a foreign country:

• Wash your hands often
• Get enough sleep
• Eat a healthy diet
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol
• Wear a seatbelt and protective gear when needed
• Use bug spray and sunscreen when needed

Food & Water Safety

To prevent foodborne illnesses or gastrointestinal discomfort, follow your doctor’s dietary recommendations. Depending on where you're traveling to, your doctor may recommend choosing:

• Bottled or disinfected water
• Fully cooked foods that are served hot
• Fruits and vegetables you have peeled or washed in clean water
• Pasteurized dairy products and hard-cooked eggs

When You Come Home

After you’re back in the United States, see a travel medicine doctor right away if you have symptoms of an infectious disease. We may recommend vaccinations for conditions like rabies or tetanus.