Travel to Developing Countries - Travel Precautions

Melatonin, a natural hormone associated with light changes, may help people recover from jet lag. Some people report good results by taking it on the day of departure a half hour before the expected sleeping time in the arrival city. Travelers might also ask their doctors about short-acting benzodiazepines ("sleeping pills"), such as lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), or temazepam (Restoril). They have been known to cause short-term forgetfulness and other side effect.

text continues below

Cruise Ships

Reports of illnesses aboard cruise ships, particularly gastrointestinal problems from contaminated food, have alarmed many travelers. A sanitation program conducted by the U.S. Public Health Service should significantly cut the risk for such problems. Cruise ships are inspected twice a year and are then rated. The CDC provides ratings to the public for all ships sailing from U.S. ports. At this time these ratings are the only guide for a healthy cruise. Meanwhile, cruise-ship travelers should avoid eating eggs and shellfish to help protect against diarrhea.

Aside from sanitation, health problems in general are common on cruise ships. A study of one major cruise ship reported that nearly 30% of the passengers were treated for skin disorders and 26% for respiratory problems while on board. Flu outbreaks sometimes occur even in summer. Older people who have not been immunized the previous flu season should ask their doctor about flu vaccinations. They add no value for people who had been previously immunized.

Preventing Skin Disorders

An estimated 3 - 10% of travelers experience some skin problem related to their trip, particularly when traveling to tropical and subtropical areas.

Avoiding Exposure to Sunlight. Many developing countries are in the tropics were sunlight is intense. Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight not only can cause sunburn but excessive sunlight and heat can cause toxic skin reactions in susceptible individuals. Everyone should avoid episodes of excessive sun exposure, particularly during the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM, when sunlight pours down 80% of its daily dose of damaging ultraviolet radiation. Reflective surfaces like water, sand, concrete, and white-painted areas should be avoided. Clouds and haze are not protective. High altitudes increase the risk for burning in shorter time compared to sea level and lower altitudes. Sunscreens and sunblocks used generously are important, but they should not be relied on for complete protection. Wearing sun-protective clothing is equally important and protects even better than sunscreens. Everyone, including children, should wear hats with wide brims.