Expert gives advice on how to stay healthy while traveling

At an interactive public event, intended to highlight health tips for international travel, Dr. Ravinder Mamtani stressed the importance of being careful when traveling to exotic locations where standards of hygiene and healthcare may be lower than what they are used to. Travelers are advised to avoid eating or drinking at places that do not look clean, to not buy food from street vendors and to only drink water that is safe. It is also wise to make sure that food is always thoroughly cooked and served hot and recommended to carry hand sanitizing wipes or gel.

Consider health risks before travel: Expert

DOHA: As travel to exotic and other locations becomes more common, travellers need to be aware of the health risks posed by visiting countries where standards of hygiene and healthcare may be lower than what they are used to, said Dr Ravinder Mamtani, Associate Dean for Global and Public Health at WCMC-Q.

Dr Mamtani explained to the assembled audience at Doha’s Diplomatic Club on Tuesday that following a few simple precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of illness while abroad.

At the interactive public event, entitled ‘Health Tips for International Travel’, Dr Mamtani said, “One of the most exciting things about going on holiday is trying new kinds of foods and visiting restaurants, but we also need to be a little bit careful. Avoid eating or drinking at places that do not look clean, ensure you drink only safe water and don’t buy food from street vendors.

“Always ensure that your food is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Observe good hand hygiene and carry hand sanitising wipes or gel. These measures will help reduce the risk of stomach upsets and infections, which can really ruin a holiday.”

The Ask the Expert series is part of WCMC-Q’s Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First campaign, a five-year initiative that aims to encourage members of both the expat and Qatari communities to make healthy lifestyle choices.

“See your doctor before you travel to ensure your travel vaccines are up to date to protect you against serious infections like hepatitis A and B, and yellow fever,” he said.

Dr Mamtani also advised people travelling to Africa, South America and Asia to be aware of the risks of mosquito bites and other parasites. If travelling to an area which has a risk of malaria, pills should be taken and insect repellent and mosquito nets should be used. It is also wise to take a well-stocked emergency medical kit with you.

You should also remember to protect your skin from the sun with hats and long-sleeved garments and wear sunscreen lotion with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) appropriate for your skin tone. Avoid the sun in the middle of the day.

Dr Mamtani advised those with long-term medical conditions to seek advice from their physician before they travel and to take plenty of medication with them. Carry a list of reputable hospitals at your destination and ensure your health insurance is adequate and that you have a copy of your policy.

To reduce the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) on long haul flights, stay well hydrated and perform light stretching exercises every one or two hours. If you have a health condition that could increase your risk of suffering DVT, wear compression stockings.

The Peninsula