5 Ways to salvage a trip if you get sick

The rigors of travel can really impact your health and see you susceptible to illnesses. Here are 5 ways to salvage a trip if you get sick.

Check your insurance before you travel – It is a smart choice to purchase trip insurance with medical coverage. You should check with your insurance provider on what is covered and how reimbursements are made.

If your illness is serious, contact your embassy or consulate – If you are concerned about a serious illness and unsure about the health services provided at your destination, it is best to contact your embassy. Consulate officers will direct you to trusted local health care providers.

Find a good doctor – If you are traveling in your home country, visit HealthGrades.com for reviews of local doctors. For overseas travel, visit the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM.org) and the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT.org — membership required) for recommendations.

Start medications right away – When you are traveling it is best to start a course of medication as soon as you feel symptoms of an illness. This is because you need to feel better fast to enjoy the time you have and to ensure that you can travel back in time.

Protect your traveling companions – If you are traveling in a group, it is for your own interest as well as the rest of the group, to protect your fellow travelers. Therefore, when you feel symptoms coming on, you should wash your hands regularly, avoid sharing food, wear a mask and cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.