Happy Holidays and Safe Travels from CDC!

The holidays are a popular time for international travel. Keep your family happy and healthy by watching out for these travel health risks this holiday season:

• Zika is still a risk in many destinations and can be spread through mosquito bites and sex. Find out if Zika is a risk at your destination and take steps to protect yourself and the ones you love.
• There are outbreaks of measles and mumps in popular destinations in Europe (including England, Italy, and Greece) and New Zealand. Make sure you and your kids are up to date on measles and other routine vaccines, including the yearly flu shot.
• If you are traveling to visit your friends and family overseas, you may be at higher risk for some diseases. Learn more so you can stay healthy on your trip.

While you’re packing up presents and planning your celebrations, remember to prepare for a healthy trip:

See a health care provider before you go to get recommended vaccines and medicines for your destination. Pack smart so you can bring your healthy habits with you. Remember prescription and over-the-counter medicines, insect repellent, sunscreen, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and condoms. Find out if your health insurance covers care abroad – many plans don’t! Consider additional insurance that covers medical care and emergency evacuation, especially if you will be traveling to remote areas.