3 Types of Travel Insurance to Consider

March 6, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Travel Insurance

When getting ready to travel internationally, having the right insurance is a key consideration to maximize your peace of mind and your safety overseas. The right type of travel insurance from a reputable company can protect you from unexpected emergencies overseas.

There are many different types of travel insurance relevant to different situations; however, there are three major types that all travelers should consider.

1. Medical Evacuation Insurance

Depending on to where you are traveling, you may not have immediate access to high-quality health care. Medical evacuation insurance typically ensures you have paid transportation to medical facilities that are up to the standard of United States health facilities, no matter what country you are in. This can be a lifesaver if you run into an unexpected emergency that is beyond the capacity of local health care.

With the best medical evacuation insurance, you even get access to a 24/7 travel health specialist support center, which can help address emergencies at any time.

2. Travel Health Insurance

If you have pre-existing health conditions, you will definitely want to consider a comprehensive travel health insurance plan. When traveling abroad, relying on the insurance and health care practices of a foreign nation can be quite dangerous, especially when many countries do not offer the same benefits to tourists that they do to citizens.

Travel health insurance helps ensure that you will receive the same care overseas that you would in the United States. Many times, your current insurance company will have special considerations for individuals who are traveling abroad, so there is no need to make a great deal of changes to your plan. Check to see if you can simply add an extension for overseas travel.

Make sure that you have all of the benefits you will need, including transportation to high-class medical facilities as well as coverage for pre-existing conditions. You may have to purchase a separate short-term insurance plan if you are going to engage in high-impact or adventure activities such as skydiving or cave exploring.

3. Trip Cancellation Insurance

Sometimes, an overseas trip does not materialize because life gets in the way. Trip cancellation insurance helps reduce the costs of having to abandon trip plans if something happens before you actually go overseas. The amount of money that you spend on planes, accommodations and legal paperwork can be quite substantial even before you arrive at your destination. Trip cancellation insurance ensures that you save money should you have to stay home. To reduce the risk of a trip being postponed or cancelled, you should be sure to meet all the vaccination, visa or other requirements needed to enter a country.

There are plenty of free resources online for United States citizens to take advantage of when looking for the right type of insurance. The US State Department and the CDC offer a wealth of information designed to help ensure the safety of citizens who travel overseas. Use these free resources while in the planning stages of your overseas trip and benefit by going into your adventure with the peace of mind that will help you enjoy your excursion to its fullest extent.

Sources
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance
http://www.internationalsos.com

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Blood-free Advancements in Malaria Testing

March 3, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Malaria Parasite
Illustration of Malaria Parasite

 

New and Inexpensive Malaria Test is Currently in Development

Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite. Once infected, people who contract malaria may experience flu-like symptoms, such as a high fever and chills. In the United States, approximately 1,500 cases of malaria are diagnosed annually, usually from returning travelers or immigrants from any of the 106 countries and territories where malaria is a much more widespread concern. Malaria is responsible for roughly 600,000 deaths a year worldwide, and rapid and accurate diagnosis is key to not only treating the affected individual, but also in preventing the disease from further being spread.

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) provides assistance with malaria diagnosis, and provides diagnosis through microscopic tests, serology, PCR, and drug resistance testing, but soon, a new “bloodless” transdermal test developed by Rice University researcher Dr. Dmitri Lapotko may be added as a reliable and painless option. Researchers have already begun to test the through-the-skin test on humans. It is accurate enough to detect a single infected red blood cell out of 800 (a ratio that makes the test more sensitive than those currently available), all the while without any false positives. Medical personnel are not required to administer the test; it is safe and inexpensive. The test results are also available instantly, which is a priceless trait to enable speedy treatment not currently provided by malaria tests in use today.

How Does This New Transdermal Malaria Test work?

The method for this test is referred to as hemozoin-induced vapor nanobubbles, or H-VNB. Malaria parasites carry hemozoin iron crystals. A laser is used on the finger or ear, and once the laser heats these crystals, a small hemozoin bubble forms, and will eventually pop. When the hemozoin bubble pops, there is no damage to the skin.

The test takes into account the visual and acoustic properties of this pop, and, since this only occurs when stimulated by the heat of the laser, there are no false positives. This test detects malaria even when other tests may not since it is able to detect the parasite even in early stages of the disease, when the rate of infection is as low as a .00034%. When tested on both mice and humans, no damage occurred to the skin, and it has appeared to be safe and painless, according to researchers.

The nearly maintenance-free laser does not require much power to function and can operate well even in the harsh conditions typical to the parts of Africa and Latin America that experience malaria epidemics. The test is expected to cost only 50 cents per administration. Current rapid tests are more expensive, spoil in these warmer climates, lack sensitivity and reliability, and require a finger prick. In comparison, this new method of testing is safer, more reliable, more convenient, and is inexpensive, all of which are optimal traits for fighting malaria through quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Next Developmental Steps and Potential Use

A representative from Passport Health was recently afforded the opportunity for an interview with Dr. Dmitri Lapotko, who was able to provide more insight into the research and developmental stages of this innovative malaria test. Upon completion of further clinical trials, the next steps in the developmental stages of this test are to develop the prototype for the field version of the testing device and fundraising.

According to Dr. Lapotko, once completed, manufacturing and marketing of the malaria diagnostic equipment would be established to get the H-VNB test into the hands of those who need it most. Once established, the test could be used for screening and epidemiology in endemic areas at the rate of 200,000 people, per year and per device. Border entry screening would also follow, including at domestic airports, as well as blood transfusion screening and personnel screening for the military. The test would also be used for monitoring therapeutic responses to treatment. When asked about potential drawbacks, Dr. Lapotko replied that the only limitation thus far is that the malaria community is not ready to grasp the new method since it is viewed as being “too good to be true.”

For more information about malaria and the new malaria test in development, please visit the following:

Sources:
CDC: Information on Malaria
Singularity Hub: Article on New Malaria Test
The New York Times: Article on New Malaria Test
Rice University: News Release

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Travel. It’s Good for Your Health!

February 27, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Traveling is good for your health!

 

Travel: Another Way to Stay Healthy?

We all know how important it is to maintain good health in order to have a more comfortable old age. However, longevity and wellness may come from a surprising source. According to research conducted by the Global Commission on Aging, the U.S. Travel Association and the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, traveling often is a great way to improve a person’s long-term health. Here are some reasons why venturing out of your comfort zone can produce some great benefits:

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Malaria Spikes in the United States

February 24, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Anopheles mosquito
Malaria can be transmitted through the bite
of an infected Anopheles mosquito.

 

Malaria in the United States: An Unexpected Spike

Instances of malaria in the United States are the highest in 40 years. Almost 2,000 cases were diagnosed and reported in 2011. While this is nowhere near the number of cases found in developing countries, it is still a significant issue.

Malaria is a serious communicable illness that affects millions of people each year. The effects of the disease are felt on economic output as well as public health. Between 600,000 and 1.2 million people died in 2010 alone. It is most common in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia and South America.

The news that cases of malaria in the U.S. have spiked is a major concern for public health officials, as it means that travelers have not been adequately protected while they were abroad. Sadly, several military personnel brought the disease back with them from abroad as well. 91 cases of malaria in 2011 involved service members who had traveled to Africa or Afghanistan. Anyone who is visiting a region where malaria is common should take steps to safeguard their health well before they leave the United States.

How Can I Protect Myself from Malaria?

The first step towards protecting yourself against malaria is to make an appointment with a travel health specialist. He or she will listen to your concerns and analyze your travel plans for any issues that may arise. There are no effective malaria vaccines on the market, but there are anti-malarial drugs, as well as certain antibiotics, that can be used to fight off a case of malaria. However, some regions where malaria is common have started reporting resistant cases where the main drug, chloroquine, has stopped being effective. Your travel health specialist will advise you on what drugs to take with you. Some common anti-malaria medications available in the U.S. include:

  • Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
  • Chloroquine
  • Doxycycline
  • Mefloquine (Lariam)
  • Primaquine

You should also bring mosquito nets to protect yourself from bites while you sleep at night. Packing a high-powered anti-mosquito spray can also be useful.

Even if you bring prophylactic medication with you on your trip, you may still end up falling ill. You should always make arrangements for travel insurance just in case. You may even have to cut your trip short and return to the U.S. for medical treatment. Malaria is a very serious condition, and it should not be “toughed out” on your own.

Malaria: a Serious Public Health Concern

The spike in malaria cases in the U.S. is relatively small in comparison to the wider population, but it is still a source of concern for public health officials. Awareness of the risks of malaria while traveling abroad can help lessen the chances that you will contract the illness yourself. Visit a travel health specialist if you want to learn about how to minimize your risk of developing malaria.

Sources
Vaccine Nation Article
CDC Paper on Malaria Surveillance
CDC Page on Malaria

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The WHO World Cancer Report: Cancer Prevention Through Vaccinations

February 20, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Happy, Healthy, Vaccinated Family

 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is an imminent human disaster waiting to unfold over the next 20 years. This threat to human health comes in the form of cancer, which is expected to increase by 57 percent in the coming two decades. The increase in cancer cases and deaths is an expected result of the aging population, lifestyle and behavioral factors. However, preventive public health actions may be able to keep the epidemic from getting any worse.

The WHO Cancer Report

The WHO World Cancer Report was prepared and released by the agency’s division on cancer on World Cancer Day. In the report, researchers predict that new cancer cases around the world will increase from an estimated 14 million each year in 2012 to 22 million by the year 2032. Over the same two decades, deaths from cancer are estimated to increase from 8.2 million annually to 13 million. In the report, scientists explain that approximately half of all cancer cases and deaths are preventable and could be avoided by adhering to current medical recommendations such as quitting or never starting smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and getting vaccinated against infections known to cause cancer.

Impacts of the WHO Report

The WHO report explains that prevention is the key to reducing cancer cases. Public health initiatives like banning smoking from public places, increasing taxes on tobacco and alcohol products, and controlling pollution continue to remain important aspects of reducing cancer risk. Most recently, CVS Caremark pharmacies gained worldwide attention when they made the decision to stop carrying tobacco products in its more than 7,600 stores nationwide. While cancer rates in the United States are declining when controlling for age, rates in Asia and Africa are on the rise due to high smoking rates, pollution and other risk factors. Lung cancer remains the leading worldwide cause of cancer deaths, followed by breast cancer, large bowel cancer, liver cancer and stomach cancer. One important action that individuals can take to reduce their risk is to get vaccinated against infections known to increase the risk of cancer.

The HPV Vaccine

The majority of cervical cancers result from infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can also cause cancer of the vulva, vagina and anus. Vaccines by name brands Gardasil and Cervarix help the body produce antibodies that prevent infection from HPV, thereby reducing the risk of developing these deadly cancers. The HPV vaccine is recommended for pre-teen boys and girls as well as men up to 21 years old and women up to 26.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B is the leading cause of liver cancer worldwide. It can be passed from mother to child or through sexual intercourse and blood exposure. The hepatitis B vaccine reduces the risk of liver cancer and other liver diseases. The hepatitis B vaccine is a series of three shots and is now a part of the recommended childhood vaccine schedule, but many adults have never been vaccinated. It’s never too late to get vaccinated for hepatitis B.

Preventing Infections That Cause Cancer

The evidence provided by the WHO and CDC confirms that cancer cases and deaths can be reduced by preventing infections that lead to the development of cancer later in life. No matter what other risk factors a person has, they can still get the needed protection provided by today’s safe vaccines. Contacting a health specialist for more information about hepatitis B and HPV vaccinations is the first step towards reducing your cancer risk.

Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/04/health/who-world-cancer-report/index.html
http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/so-long-cigs-michelle-obama-praises-cvs-pulling-tobacco-n22156
http://www.cdc.gov/hpv/vaccine.html
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/hep-b.html

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Global Impact of Malaria

February 17, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Samburu tribe in Kenya is located in malaria risk area.

Women and children of the Samburu tribe in Kenya. Samburu, Kenya is located in a malaria risk area.

Malaria: A Global Killer

Malaria is a disease caused by a microorganism known as Plasmodium that is carried by some species of mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, shivering, vomiting, joint pain and convulsions. Left untreated, malaria can cause seizures, comas and respiratory distress, which can all be fatal. Some patients die in just 24 hours. Others survive but face a lifelong risk of relapse due to the parasitic microorganism surviving in their bodies. Overall, between 600,000 and 1.2 million people die from malaria each year. According to the Malaria Foundation International, a child dies from malaria every 30 seconds, and 10 percent of the world’s population will develop malaria each year.

Malaria is prevalent in Central and South America, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia and parts of East Asia. The disease can be found in more than 100 countries inhabited by some 2.4 billion people, which amounts to 40 percent of the entire global population. To that end, malaria is an extremely serious public health issue. In some African countries, six out of every 10 hospital admissions may be caused by malaria. This presents a frightening drain on already deficient hospital services. The disease costs African nations alone $12 billion a year in lost economic opportunities when ill people stop working for more than one week. This disease not only kills; it forces local economies to come to a standstill, thus perpetuating a cycle of poverty. Diagnosing and treating malaria as quickly and efficiently as possible is one of the best ways to save lives.

A New Way to Test for Malaria?

Malaria is difficult to diagnose in areas without sufficient medical resources as it tends to present non-specific symptoms in the initial onset period. However, a new test has been developed by Dmitri Lapotko, a researcher at Duke University. This test is unique in that it does not require a blood sample to accurately diagnose a patient with malaria within seconds. First, a laser beam is sent through a patient’s ear or finger. This heats the crystals that the malaria parasites produce in their host. The heat of the laser creates a bubble which consequently pops, and the test measures the sound and acoustics of that popping noise in order to diagnose the patient with malaria.

How Malaria is Diagnosed and Treated in the U.S. and Overseas

In the United States, a clinical diagnosis of malaria is typically made based on the patient’s symptoms, medical and travel histories, an antigen detection procedure and a microscopic diagnosis. Treatment includes intravenous infusion of anti-malarial medications such as chloroquine, quinine, quinidine, doxycycline and clindamycin.

Standards of treatment vary outside of the U.S., but the main approach towards diagnosis is the observation of symptoms as well as a blood test. This is why Lapotko’s new skin test will be incredibly useful; doctors will be able to give patients life-saving anti-malarial drugs straight away. One drug that is used outside the U.S. is known as artesunate.

Sadly, some strains of malaria are developing resistance to previously effective prophylactic methods such as chloroquine. While vaccines are in development, they may be several years away from completion. This means that other anti-malarial drugs must be used carefully in order to prevent resistances from forming and causing even more deaths.

The Ongoing Struggle Against Malaria

Even though the new diagnostic skin test is promising, public health officials in several countries have a long and difficult road ahead of them in the battle against malaria. Poverty, poor sanitation and inadequate medical resources will continue to contribute to the alarmingly high number of deaths caused by the disease each year. International non-profit organizations have supplied items such as prophylactic drugs, DDT sprays and mosquito nets to areas in desperate need, but the fight is not over until malaria is eradicated entirely.

Sources
Centers for Disease Control Guide on Malaria Treatment in the U.S.
CDC Article on the Possibility of Malaria Reduction
World Health Organization News Release on Malaria – December 2013
CDC Page on Malaria Worldwide

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What to do When a Volcano Erupts

February 14, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Volcano Erupting

 

Volcano Erupts in Indonesia

The volcanic eruption of Mount Kelud in Indonesia on Friday, February 14, 2014 sheds light upon the issue of the impacts of Mother Nature during travel. Although volcanic activity and earthquakes should not be a surprise due to Indonesia being located in the “Pacific Ring of Fire” where such activity often occurs, the volcano had not erupted since 2007. In December, Chapparrastique volcano in El Salvador also gained worldwide attention when it erupted after over 37 years of inactivity.

The eruption prompted the Indonesian government to raise its eruption alert to its highest level. This eruption has taken 3 lives due to falling debris and smoke inhalation, and over 75,000 residents within a 6 mile radius were ordered to evacuate, calling on military assistance to relocate residents to shelters. Seven airports were closed due to the amount of volcanic ash in the atmosphere and the threat this poses to jet engines compromising safety conditions, suspending travel plans for many.

Protecting You and Your Family During a Volcanic Eruption

When preparing for travel, you may have thought of everything that you need to pack and your itinerary, and still encounter a few surprises along the way. But what do you do when the totally unforeseen occurs, such as a volcano eruption? The Center for Disease Control advises that the best thing to do if you should encounter a volcanic eruption is to follow the advice of local officials. They will be able to provide you with important information, including evacuation details, if needed.

The CDC also provides the following tips if you are faced with this situation:

  • If lava is headed towards you, leave the area immediately. Follow evacuation instructions immediately after being warned of imminent danger. When able to do so, evacuate in a vehicle rather than walking, keeping all doors and windows closed. Be aware of the road and any hazardous driving conditions or obstacles. If you are able to, drive your vehicle across the path of danger, and if not, drive away from danger.
  • If you are indoors, protect yourself from ash and smoke by closing all windows and doors, and any other entry points for outside air, such as fireplaces or woodstove dampers. Fans, heating and air conditioning should not be used. Remember to also protect pets and livestock by bringing them indoors.
  • If you are outdoors, seek an indoor shelter. If caught in rockfall or other falling debris, tuck into a ball and always protect your head. Move up-slop as quickly as possible if you are near a stream or river since rising water and possible mudflows are likely in lower-lying areas. If your eyes, nose, and throat become irritated from volcanic gases and fumes, these symptoms should subside as you immediately relocate to another area. If these symptoms persist, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

The presence of ashfall alone poses its own threat. When faced with ashfall, you should:

  • Close all doors and windows and stay inside.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
  • Protect your eyes with goggles while inside. If ashfall is continuous, your indoor shelter is put at risk after a few hours due to a possible roof collapse caused by the weight of ash, and could possibly block air intakes. If ashfall lasts for more than a few hours, listen to evacuation advice from authorities.
  • Remember that exposure to ash can cause harm to your respiratory tract and your health. When outdoors or cleaning ash that has accumulated indoors, an air purifying respirator may be considered, such as an N-95 respirator which is commonly available at hardware stores. All directions should be followed for proper use and maximum protection. A dust mask may be used as a last resort, but they do not offer as much protection as a particulate respirator, such as the N-95. Please note that a particulate respirator does not filter toxic gases and vapors. It is important that all trips outdoors are not for extended periods of time while dust and ash is falling.
  • If you have to drive, driving in heavy ashfall should be avoided since the ash can clog engines and stall vehicles. All windows and doors should be closed, and air conditioning should not be used since it will draw in outside air and ash.

For more details on these recent volcanic eruptions and volcano preparedness, please see the listed sources below.

Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/13/world/asia/indonesia-volcano-eruption-evacuation/
http://www.cnn.com/2013/12/29/world/americas/el-salvador-chaparrastique-volcano-erupts/index.html
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/volcanoes/during.asp
http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/volcano

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CDC Publishes 2014 Immunization Schedule

February 13, 2014 By Leave a Comment
2014 Adult Immunization Schedule
Adapted from ACIP. Click the image above to see a larger, printable, diagram with footnotes.

 

The New 2014 Immunization Schedule: What Does it Mean?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released an updated immunization schedule for adults age 19 and older. These changes were approved in October 2013 by several different medical associations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Advisory Committee on Immunization and the American College of Nurse-Midwives. These changes emphasize the important role that health specialists have where adult immunization is concerned as they lead the way in terms of patient contact and reminder services for routine vaccinations. While a significant number of resources are devoted to immunizations for children, fewer adults are aware that routine vaccinations are still necessary. This new schedule will hopefully help this target demographic.

Changes from the 2013 Immunization Schedule

The updated immunization schedule has some significant changes from last year’s edition. While some of these changes are just clarifications, others involve alterations to the scheduling of certain vaccines. One of the most important changes is for the Haemophilus influenzae Type B (Hib). The updated recommendation states that people who have had stem-cell transplants will need a three-course series of this vaccine six to 12 months after the transplant has been performed. This is to protect their health as many transplant patients are immuno-compromised.

Other changes are more superficial and involve alterations to the instructions. For example, the changes to the entry on influenza vaccines recommends that patients be made aware that a vaccine is available for those who have egg allergies. In addition, healthcare workers are no longer recommended to receive a Zoster (shingles/chickenpox) vaccination, although it is still a good idea. Pneumococcal vaccines are now recommended to be administered in a certain way. The PCV13 dosage should be administered before PPSV23 if they are recommended for a given patient. Finally, the language in the entry for the meningococcal vaccine clarifies which patients should receive one of two vaccines.

How Does This Affect Me?

While most people will remain unaffected by the new changes, others may need to talk to a specialist about certain vaccinations or boosters that they should receive in order to protect their health and the health of those around them. If you are traveling abroad at any point in the near future, you may want to schedule a consultation with a travel health specialist in order to discuss how these recent changes affect you. For example, in addition to any destination-specific precautionary measures, you may need to receive a booster vaccination from the specialist before you depart. This is especially important for anyone who has lapsed in their boosters for Hepatitis A and B as well as tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Td/Tdap). These vaccinations can greatly protect your health while you travel, so it is wise to schedule an appointment well in advance.

The Immunization Schedule: Taking Charge of Your Health

These changes to the CDC immunization schedule reflect the great need for vaccination awareness in the United States. Immunization is just as important for adults as it is for children, but millions of adult Americans do not receive the vaccinations they need because they are unaware of them. By publishing this schedule, as well as an easy-to-read guide, the CDC is reaching out to adults over the age of 19 who may not have realized how valuable immunization is. With a little research and dedication to our own health, we can help keep everyone healthy!

Sources
Vaccine Nation Article
Annals of Internal Medicine Publication
CDC Adult Immunization Pocket Guide 2014
CDC Feature on Adult Vaccinations
ACIP Homepage

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Aggressive flu strain kills Phoenix attorney, family encourages everyone to get vaccinated

February 11, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Flu Vaccine Vial

The death of a Phoenix attorney urges his family and peers to talk about the importance of the flu vaccine.

As the amount of flu cases rise this season, a younger and healthier demographic that is usually at least risk is also encouraged to protect themselves through vaccination against the flu.

The flu shot is still your best defense against getting the flu and reducing risks to you and those around you.

 

Full details of this story may be found in the links below.

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Top 7 Cruise Tips for Disabled Travelers

February 10, 2014 By Leave a Comment
Cruise Vacation

 

Going on a Cruise as a Disabled Passenger

As cruise vacations grow more popular, cruise lines are making a dedicated effort to accommodate disabled passengers. Ships are being outfitted with cabins that can fit wheelchairs, support bars and medical equipment. No matter what your situation, it is now easier than ever to enjoy fresh sea air and exotic locations. Here are seven tips for disabled persons who want to go on a cruise:

1. Make Sure You’re Fit to Travel

Before you even book your cruise trip, you should consult with a travel health specialist to assess whether or not it is safe for you to travel. He or she will give you a thorough consultation and listen to your concerns. You may need to arrange for vaccinations as well as travel insurance that can cover any medical attention you may need while on your trip.

2. Get in Touch with a Travel Agent

Once you have been cleared to go on a cruise, you should contact a travel agent, especially one who specializes in making plans that are tailored to unique situations. He or she can help you find a cruise that will provide you with a great experience no matter what your personal situation is. Relying on the expert knowledge of a travel agent can allow for a great cruise experience with as little hassle as possible.

3. Find a Cruise Line that Suits Your Needs

Some of the best cruise lines for disabled passengers are Holland America, Royal Caribbean and NCL. You should check to see if the whole ship is accessible and what plans are made for areas that may not be accessible to you. Your travel agent will be able to advise you on what cruise line and itinerary will be best for you, and you can make an informed decision from there. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

4. Be Firm about Requesting a Cabin with Disabled Access

Travel agents are very understanding about the needs of potential passengers, so you shouldn’t be ashamed or scared to request a cabin that will accommodate your medical needs. Once you have made your booking, double-check to make sure that your assigned cabin is exactly what you requested, and don’t be afraid to get in touch if a mistake has been made.

5. Bring Extra Medications and Medical Supplies

If you have any medications or supplies that you rely on in your day-to-day life, make sure that you bring an extra amount with you for the cruise. Talk to your travel health specialist before your trip and get a prescription that covers your journey if necessary. This is extremely important as some countries that you will be visiting may not fill a U.S. prescription.

6. Carry a Ship’s Map with You

Once you are onboard, ask for a ship’s map from the staff and carry it with you at all times. You can rely on the map to navigate through accessible and non-accessible areas. Don’t be afraid to ask for a staff member to act as your guide if you need it.

7. Ask about Shore Excursions

While the cruise ship itself will be equipped to handle passengers with various disabilities, some of the ports and shore excursions might not be. For example, some towns and regions might not have wheelchair ramps. If you want to take part in an excursion or visit a location listed on the cruise, you should check with the ship’s staff to see how your needs can be accommodated during the short trip. By asking in advance, alternative arrangements can be made for you so that you do not miss out on any part of your vacation!

Cruises: A Great Way to Relax and Recharge

Thankfully, cruises are becoming progressively more accessible to those with disabilities. With a bit of extra planning, you can fully enjoy a cruise vacation and not miss out on a second of fun! After all, everyone deserves a vacation and the chance to relax and recharge.

Sources
Article from Cruise Critic
CDC Article on Cruise Ship Travel
CDC Page on Traveling with a Disability

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