Ohio State University Fact Sheet

Community Development

700 Ackerman Road, Suite 235, Columbus, OH 43202-1578

Environmental Health for Travel

CDFS-700

Whether you travel for business or pleasure, nothing can spoil a trip more than being ill. These tips will help you maximize your health and safety, as well as maintain your wellness, while traveling. Myths regarding how to stay well while traveling abound; in this pamphlet, however, we offer medically and scientifically sound suggestions to improve your journey. Keep in mind that there is no substitute for common sense.

Introduction

In international travel, only 5% of medical problems are prevented by immunizations. Accidents and pre-existing illnesses are the leading causes of sickness or death in travel. Knowledge, not shots, is the key to a positive travel experience. Educate yourself about where you are going, and remember that it's not your home or backyard.

Food and Beverages

• Although water is vital for life, proceed with caution when using it while traveling.
• Nothing is more effective for purifying water than boiling it (at higher altitudes, boil for at least 5 minutes).
• Remember that you use local water when you get ice, brush your teeth, cleanse a wound, wash your hands, eat fresh vegetables, and make fruit juice from concentrate.

Travel by Air

• Because altitude enhances the effects of alcohol, drink in moderation when flying. Higher altitudes require greater liquid intake. Non-carbonated beverages are best for replenishing fluids. Because alcohol contributes to dehydration, avoid having more than one drink.
• There is no science about jet lag when traveling three or more time zones; use common sense and rest.
• On long flights, plan for a stopover; on any long trip home, plan for rest time after returning.
• Safety records suggest avoiding nonscheduled aircraft and commuter craft when possible.
• Remove contact lenses on long plane, ship, or train journeys as the recirculated air dries eyes.

Travel by Surface

• Drive with windows cracked for better air circulation.
• When vents are on, use intake circulation rather than recirculated air.
• Know the local rules of the road, which vary from country to country as well as from state to state.
• Know where and how signage appears in local areas.
• Schedule stops during the drive and take them!
• Plan on a day of rest after a long drive.

Lodging

• Run the vent in the bath for 5-10 minutes after cleaning each day.
• Ventilate rooms when you first enter them by opening the windows, using fans, and opening the door (although remember to keep the chain fastened).
• When in meeting rooms without fresh air, try to go outside at least once per hour.
• Let water run in the shower for three minutes to wash out bacteria that may build up in the shower head (but be aware of drought restrictions).
• Know hotel fire exits and rules.
• In towers, lower floors are safer.

In the Outdoors

• Use water repellent sun protection factor (SPF). Above 15 SPF, additional protection gains are minimal.
• Apply SPF 20-30 minutes before going into the sun to allow the skin to absorb the protection.
• For total blockage of UV rays, use zinc oxide.
• UV-blocking sunglasses are divided into three categories: cosmetic, with up to 20% blockage; general, with up to 60% blockage, and special purpose, with more than 60% blockage.
• The price of sunglasses does not reflect the protection.
• The most effective insect repellent is a 30-35% concentration of DEET applied 1 to 3 times per day.
• For tick repellent, spray permethrin onto clothes; this can last as long as a month.

Development and Review Team