(SACRAMENTO) 
You've booked your flight and packed your bags. But have you planned for health risks during your trip?
As summer travel ramps up, many travelers are paying closer attention to global health headlines — including renewed concern about Ebola in parts of Africa. But travel medicine experts say focusing on one disease can overlook other important risks. Many travel health risks are easy to miss, yet most can be prevented with a little planning.
At the UC Davis Health Travelers' Clinic, specialists help travelers understand and reduce health risks before they leave.
Do I need vaccines for international travel?
"Many people think they don't need a travel medicine visit because they've traveled before without any issues or because they can find recommendations online," said Natascha Tuznik, associate clinical professor of infectious diseases and director of the Travelers' Clinic. "The reality is that travel medicine is highly individualized. Choosing the right vaccines and preventive medications depends on far more than the destination; it requires consideration of a traveler's health, medications, itinerary, planned activities and the constantly changing landscape of global outbreaks."
Travelers may be worried about Ebola, but more common illnesses can also affect a trip. These include insect-borne diseases, food- and water-related illness and vaccine-preventable infections such as typhoid or yellow fever.
"Headlines may focus on one illness, but travelers are exposed to a range of risks," said Tuznik. "We help people prepare for all of them so they can travel with confidence and enjoy their time away."
We help people prepare for health risks, so they can travel with confidence and enjoy their time away."--Natascha Tuznik, director, Travelers' Clinic
What happens during a travel medicine appointment?
During a pre-travel appointment, patients get advice based on where they are going and what they plan to do, including vaccines, medications and tips to stay healthy abroad. The clinic also helps travelers plan for less obvious challenges, such as jet lag, motion sickness and sleep disruption.
Patients can expect:
- Personalized health recommendations based on destination and activities
- Immunizations and other preventive treatments
- Medications to lessen the risk of diseases such as malaria
- Practical guidance on food, water and insect safety
The goal is not only to prevent illness but to protect the overall travel experience.
When should I schedule a travel health appointment?
Travelers are encouraged to schedule a visit four to six weeks before departure, since some vaccines require multiple doses or time to become fully effective. However, even those planning trips on short notice can still benefit from a consultation.
What should I do if I get sick during or after travel?
The clinic's support does not end when the trip does. Travelers who get sick during or after their journey can return for evaluation and care, particularly if they experience symptoms such as fever, diarrhea or rash.
"Travel should be about enjoying the experience," said Tuznik. "With the right preparation, many health risks can be avoided."
Make an appointment
The UC Davis Health Travelers' Clinic is located in the Lawrence J. Ellison Ambulatory Care Center at 4860 Y St., Sacramento. UC Davis patients can schedule a visit by calling 916-734-2737 and selecting option 2.
