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Summer travel should be about making memories, not managing a mid-trip illness. But between crowded airports, long flights and unfamiliar environments, even experienced travelers can get thrown off track.
The good news? A little preparation guided by your primary care doctor — whether that's a family medicine doctor or an internal medicine doctor — can go a long way.
“Aspirin isn’t a plan,” says Dr. Zachary Johnson, a family medicine physician with Community Health Network. “If you have health concerns and a trip coming up, address them before you leave, not at the airport.”
Whether you already have a family doctor or are searching for a new provider near you accepting new patients, here’s how to stay healthy while traveling.
According to Dr. Johnson, the answer is simple: plan ahead with help from an internal medicine or primary care doctor.
“A little preparation can make travel healthier and more enjoyable,” he says. “Before you go, check the CDC’s travel site for resources on vaccines, travel clinics, and the latest health and safety alerts.”
Dr. Johnson also recommends that before your trip, you schedule a visit with a provider to:
“Some preventive medications need to be started weeks in advance, which is why early planning matters. It’s best to book a visit at least four-to-six weeks before leaving town,” Dr. Johnson advises.
If you’re visiting certain destinations, the answer is yes. Your family medicine provider can:
“Early planning gives you the best protection and the most options,” Dr. Johnson says.
Dr. Johnson emphasizes one key habit: hygiene.
“Simple habits like hand hygiene can make a meaningful difference in preventing illness while traveling,” says Dr. Johnson.
He recommends to his patients they wash hands frequently, use sanitizer when needed, and avoid touching their face. If you’re a high-risk patient, be sure to wear a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces. These basics can significantly reduce your risk of illness.
Long flights (more than four hours) can increase your risk of blood clots.
“To keep your circulation moving, stay hydrated and build movement into your travel routine. Even small movements can make a difference,” Dr. Johnson says.
To avoid blood clots, make sure to:
“Don’t wait until you feel sick to think about what you might need,” Dr. Johnson recommends. “If you’re not feeling your best before you leave, talk with your provider about simple ways to stay comfortable during travel.”
Dr. Johnson encourages his patients to pack a few basic over-the-counter medications for pain, stomach issues and allergies so they can quickly manage common travel-related symptoms without needing to find a pharmacy.
He also suggests packing prescription medications in original containers. Even though it takes up space, bringing medications in their original bottles ensures an out-of-town care team has accurate, verified details to keep you safe and avoid errors.
“A medication list or wallet card can help, but it may be outdated or incomplete,” Dr. Johnson adds. “Bringing both gives providers the clearest, most reliable picture of what you’re taking.”
Even with preparation, things happen.
“Having a plan in place helps you respond quickly and avoid unnecessary stress,” says Dr. Johnson.
Before traveling:
For example, if you’re traveling within Indiana, Community Health Network offers virtual primary care and virtual on-demand appointments, making it easier to connect with a provider.
The healthiest trips don’t happen by accident. Taking a proactive approach helps you avoid surprises and focus on enjoying your trip.
Connect with a Community Health Network family medicine provider: eCommunity.com/provider
Meet Zachary Johnson, MDZachary Johnson, MD, is a family medicine physician who earned his medical degree and completed his residency at Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine in Huntington, West Virginia. He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians.
His clinical interests include migraines, hypertension, diabetes, depression and anxiety, and skin conditions, making him a trusted primary care physician and family doctor for patients of all ages.
Outside of work, Johnson enjoys woodworking, playing guitar, coin collecting, bowling, golf and watching — and playing — soccer (Manchester City) and football (Ohio State and Cincinnati Bengals). He also enjoys traveling to Europe.
