Humanitarian aid workers dedicate their time to assist people in need due to conflicts, natural disasters, outbreaks, or breakdowns of healthcare or infrastructure. These deployments can last from weeks to years, and over 35% of long-term humanitarian aid workers report a decline in their personal health during missions. It is essential to prepare and maintain good health during your travels. This article provides guidelines on how to stay safe and healthy during your humanitarian work.
Before Your Trip
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Visit your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist: Schedule an appointment at least one month before you leave to obtain destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discuss your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider so they can give you personalized advice and recommendations.
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Get a dental check-up: If you will be gone for more than six months, ensure your dental health is in good condition before leaving.
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Stay up-to-date on routine vaccines: Ensure you are protected from infectious diseases that can spread quickly in groups of unvaccinated people.
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Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Check for and monitor travel advisories for your destination and ensure the US Department of State knows your whereabouts in case of emergencies.
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Plan for the unexpected: This includes getting travel insurance, learning where to get healthcare during travel, packing a comprehensive travel health kit, and enrolling in STEP.
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Prepare a travel health kit: Include prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, a mask, insect repellent, sunscreen (SPF15 or higher), aloe, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, water disinfection tablets, and your health insurance card. As an aid worker, you may need additional supplies, such as first-aid items, gloves, bed nets, extra prescription glasses, and photocopies of important documents.
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Consider your health: If you are pregnant, have a chronic illness, or a weakened immune system, evaluate whether there are alternative ways to support the mission without international travel.
During Your Trip
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Seek medical attention promptly: If you or a travel companion experience an injury or sickness that requires more than basic first aid or over-the-counter medicine, seek medical care immediately.
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Choose safe transportation: Always wear a seat belt and use car seats for children. Be cautious when crossing streets, especially in countries where people drive on the opposite side of the road.
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Choose safe food and drink: Opt for hot, dry, and packaged foods, as well as bottled, canned, and hot drinks to prevent illnesses.
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Be cautious around animals: Avoid contact with animals, including pets, farm animals, and wildlife, to reduce the risk of rabies and bacterial infections.
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Protect your mental health: Minimize stress during travel and seek help if you experience mental health issues.
After Your Trip
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Schedule a post-travel exam: Long-term travelers are at a higher risk of contracting infections, sometimes without symptoms. Consider having a thorough medical exam or interview with your healthcare provider after returning to the United States.
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Discuss mental health concerns: Inform your healthcare provider about any mental health issues you experienced during or after your trip.
Remember, preparation and awareness are key to staying healthy during humanitarian missions. Follow these guidelines and consult your healthcare provider to ensure that you remain in good health throughout your travels.