Text / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 
With consecutive holidays approaching, many people plan to travel abroad. But if you’ve happily mapped out your itinerary and gotten into the right mindset, only to fall ill upon arrival—stuck in your hotel room or glued to the bathroom—it can really ruin your trip. Below are eight small but important details to keep in mind while traveling abroad to help you avoid viruses and stay healthy.

● Wash your hands frequently
Washing your hands is the most basic and practical step you can take to prevent bacteria from entering your body. Don’t underestimate the hand-washing process—wetting your hands, applying soap, scrubbing, and drying each takes at least 30–45 seconds. Doing this properly can go a long way in keeping viruses out of your system.
● Avoid drinking untreated water
If you’re unsure whether the local water is safe to drink, stick to bottled water—it’s your safest bet to avoid getting sick. Even if you see locals drinking the tap water, consider whether your stomach can handle the local waterborne pathogens.
● Other beverages
Aside from water, all other drinks you consume should ideally be boiled, including milk or hot tea. Alternatively, you can opt for sealed canned beverages such as beer, coffee, or wine.
● Watch what you eat
Many travel-related illnesses stem from food, so ensuring food cleanliness is crucial. Before eating, check whether fruits and vegetables have been peeled, whether the water used to wash salads is clean, and especially whether meats like beef or fish are thoroughly cooked.

● Protect yourself from the sun
Too much sun exposure can ruin your entire vacation. In addition to wearing hats and protective clothing to avoid excessive sun, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn. More importantly, stay well-hydrated to avoid dehydration, which can leave you weak and vulnerable.
● Take mosquito prevention seriously
Many infectious diseases are transmitted through mosquito bites. To reduce the risk, carry mosquito repellent and wear long pants and long-sleeved clothing that covers your skin. When sleeping, consider using a ceiling fan—the moving air makes it harder for insects to land on you.
● Make use of travel clinics
Before you depart, it’s a good idea to visit a travel clinic. This allows you to understand the medical needs of your destination, including whether you need specific vaccinations or need to be aware of any prevalent diseases.
● Get plenty of quality sleep
Maintaining good nighttime sleep not only helps you recover from travel fatigue but also boosts your immunity, helping you stay illness-free.

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