Traveling is the general movement of human beings between various different geographical locations. Travel is done by car, bike, foot, train, plane, bus, boat or other modes, with or without bags, and can either be one-way or round trip travel. The world has become a smaller place through air travel, shipping, road transport, railroads and satellites. Many of our activities now take place in cyberspace from sending e-mail to viewing photos to banking transactions. With the help of the Internet, we have become a global people.
However, despite globalization and its ability to unite people of diverse cultures, traditions and ethnic groups, traveling is not always safe. We need to know our boundaries and know what the hazards are. In fact, we need to be more aware of what we are exposing ourselves to because the Internet makes traveling much easier than traveling in the “old days.” There are many dangers on the Internet from viruses, scams, identity theft, fraud and child pornography. This is why it is very important to conduct adequate research on any location we intend to visit, especially if we have low-risk or high-risk items or goods to take with us.
We should always carry a personal alarm, preferably with a battery and light, which is useful for travelers as well as travelers’ family or friends. It should be compact, lightweight, water-resistant, and most importantly, able to protect us while traveling. One item that can serve all these needs is a traveling mask. A traveling mask that meets the standards set forth by the American Society for Prevention of Traveling Facial Skin Problems (ASPS), which tests masks for effectiveness and safety based on the Protection of Medical Clearance and Use of Health Barriers Act (HCPDA). Our masks should be at least 60 microns thick so they can block out the harmful UV rays from the sun.
Another guideline for traveling to the United States is to follow all immigration requirements and laws for travel. For example, all travelers arriving into the United States should register with the Department of State. They are required to present their immigration paperwork when applying for admission into the country. Failure to register and provide correct information can result in a delayed or denied entry into the United States. Along the same lines, all travelers entering the country must also obtain an immunization or pass a health screening in order to avoid contracting a contagious disease while traveling. Failure to do so puts all travelers at risk for contracting a serious or contagious disease.
While many people are used to hearing about the serious health issues associated with travel, very few truly understand the serious consequences of ignoring proper health practices while traveling. Many diseases and health risks can be prevented by following proper hygiene and reducing our stress levels while maximizing our physical activity while away from home. Practicing good hygiene and creating a positive traveling experience is essential to maintaining good health. Learning to read and write fluently, properly dispose of medications and handling food and water are examples of high-risk traveling activities that should be met while on vacation.
People who travel to the United States for vacation and do not meet the standards described in this article may feel ill, have a compromised immune system and be at risk for acquiring a disease. Be aware of your health information and do not take unnecessary risks. In addition, people who go shopping while traveling may feel well and not necessarily because they are not paying attention to their body’s warning signs. Travelers should always purchase packing supplies ahead of time to make packing a snap. If someone in your traveling party becomes sick it is important to let your doctor know as soon as possible.