According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, respiratory illnesses, including the flu, and gastrointestinal illnesses are the root of most cruise ship outbreaks. Officials say anyone planning to take a cruise should visit a health care provider before leaving port to find out what vaccines are right for them.

One of the most overlooked to-dos on a busy pre-travel itinerary checklist is the need to get vaccines and other medical preparations taken care of weeks — sometimes even months — before a trip.

Adults are often interested in protecting children from diseases encountered in other countries, but according to Danielle Fryer, RN and Clinical Manager of ADC’s Travel Clinic, adults may need protection too, even if they were raised in the country they are visiting.

If you travel outside the US for business, vacation or on a mission trip, the ADC Travel Clinic can help you prepare for a safe, healthy trip.  Four to six weeks before your departure date, contact the Travel Clinic –aaa

One of the most common discomforts travelers experience while away from home is caused by a lack of knowledge about proper food and drink precautions.

Jet lag happens when we quickly cross three or more time zones. Your body and mind is then trying to adjust to the new day/night cycle.

The result can be profound fatigue, disorientation, sleep disturbances and lack of concentration.

The key to good health while abroad is found in pre-travel preparation. Vaccinations are available to prevent many diseases you may encounter outside the United States.  But often, time is required after your vaccinations to develop adequate anti-body response before you reach a country with possible contamination.