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From Sutures to Sunburn: Essential Traveler's Medical Kits
by Marie Javins
You're off
on your first trip to a developing country...or maybe you're just flying to
Cancun for the weekend. You've seen a travel doctor and had all the recommended
shots, but, as we all know, not every travel health problem can be vaccinated
away.
Travelers
should always carry a medical kit. For extended trips, you can purchase large
pre-assembled medical kits from most outdoor stores. But you can also make your own smaller (and more useful) kit from
personal medications and the lists below.
WEEKEND
IN CANCUN pack
aspirin or similar painkillers
pepto-Bismol
antacid
antiseptic wipes
lip balm
adhesive bandages for cuts or
blisters
sunburn relief lotion
antibiotic ointment
AMAZON
BY STEAMER (for longer trips)
In addition
to the above:
cold medicine
antimalarial medication, if
required (consult a health professional about side effects)
antihistamines
mosquito repellent
motion sickness pills
antiseptic for wounds and
blisters
Swiss Army knife with tweezers
diarrhea medication,
non-prescription and prescription (check with your doctor or health
professional for the appropriate one)
prescription antibiotics
(consult a health professional)
eye drops
HEART OF DARKNESS (for
extended expeditions into developing areas)
In addition
to the above:
oral rehydration solution
Monistat or similar (for women
only)
temporary tooth fillings
thermometer (mercury
thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
bandages
gauze
latex gloves
syringe (sterile needles are
not always available)
small first aid book
Tips to remember: Take small sample-sized packets of a variety of medications
to avoid carrying an enormous medical kit. Always make sure medications are
clearly marked, especially prescription drugs, and if you remove medications
from their original packaging, save the dosage instructions--it's hard to
remember how much to take when you don't feel well.
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