If you’re planning a beach getaway, a hiking trip in the mountains or traveling to explore new cities, your health and safety should be a top priority. At Coastal Urgent Care, our goal is to help you prepare for unexpected health concerns during your upcoming travels so you stay healthy and enjoy yourself.
Planning for Health and Safety
Before setting off on your trip, take proactive steps to help prevent potential health issues. The expert medical providers at our Louisiana urgent care clinics suggest the following:
Pack a Travel Health Kit
Prepare a travel health kit that includes essential items to handle minor injuries, illnesses and common sicknesses:
- First Aid Supplies. Bandages, adhesive tape, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes and tweezers for handling cuts, scrapes and minor wounds.
- Medications. Include over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antihistamines (for allergies), anti-diarrheal medications and motion sickness pills.
- Sun Protection. Pack sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel for soothing sunburns.
- Insect Repellent. Choose a repellent containing DEET or picaridin to prevent insect bites.
Know Your Destination’s Health Risks.
Research health risks specific to your destination, such as general diseases, altitude sickness (if traveling to high-altitude areas) and local wildlife encounters. You can find destination health information on the CDC website under Travelers’ Health. Coastal Urgent Care recommends paying special attention to:
- Required Vaccinations. Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations and consider additional vaccines recommended for specific destinations (e.g., hepatitis A/B, typhoid, yellow fever).
- Food and Water Safety. Avoid consuming untreated water and raw or undercooked food that may increase the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses.
- Environmental Hazards. Be aware of potential hazards such as extreme heat, sun exposure and poisonous plants or animals native to the area.
Stay Hydrated and Practice Safe Outdoor Activities.
Hydration is essential, especially in hot and humid climates. We encourage you to:
- Drink Plenty of Water. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid Overexertion. Pace yourself during outdoor activities to prevent heat exhaustion or dehydration. Take breaks in shaded areas and wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
Practice Sun Safety.
Enjoy sunny days responsibly to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage:
- Apply Sunscreen. Use sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (UVA/UVB) and SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Find Shade. Limit direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM) when UV rays are strongest. Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses for added protection.
When to Seek Urgent Care
While preventive measures can minimize health risks, knowing when to turn to urgent care for help is important. See your nearest clinic if you experience:
- Significant Injury. Seek medical attention for injuries such as fractures, deep cuts or head injuries.
- Severe Allergic Reactions. If you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat or a rapid heartbeat, seek immediate medical care.
- Persistent Illness. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms of illness (fever, diarrhea, vomiting) persist despite self-care measures.
- Heat-Related Illness. Seek medical attention for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, including dizziness, rapid pulse, nausea or confusion.
Coastal Urgent Care: Your Partner in Health
At Coastal Urgent Care, we’re dedicated to providing you comprehensive, professional urgent care services to support your health and well-being during your travels. Our experienced healthcare providers will address your minor injuries, illnesses and health concerns promptly and get you back to enjoying your trip fast.
Preparing for a trip involves more than packing sunscreen and swimsuits. By taking proactive urgent care precautions, you can protect your health, prevent common travel-related health issues and handle unexpected situations with confidence. Contact or visit Coastal Urgent Care before your next trip for vaccinations and compassionate care.
