One in five Filipinos have already booked international trips for 2023. Not only that, but 44% of Filipinos plan to travel two to four times this year. At the same time, the Department of Tourism (DOT) targets to have 4.8 million tourist arrivals in the country this year, double the number of visitors in 2022.
This means that more people are coming in and out of the country. We can expect more people and busier streets, especially during summer, which is one of the best times to travel because of holidays and school vacations. If you’re one of those looking to have an unstoppable year full of adventures, consider these four quick health tips:
Take vitamins
Taking vitamins regularly can complement a healthy diet and lifestyle. This is especially true for people on vacation, who need to boost their immunity before and during their trip. Immune-boosting supplements such as vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can be taken three to five days before a trip and during to help travelers stay in tip-top shape.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is important all year round. Getting enough water can prevent infections, bring nutrients to cells, and ensure that organs are working properly. Besides these benefits, drinking the recommended amount of water daily is good for cognition, sleep quality, and mood. The amount of water needed per day varies from individual to individual, but for a healthy person, the recommended amount of water for men to drink per day is 15.5 cups, and 11.5 cups for women.
Drinking enough water before traveling is recommended because flying can be dehydrating. Airplanes are stored at 10 to 20% humidity, a lower rate compared to normal environments that range from 35 to 65%. Low humidity leads to dehydration.
Sleep well
Good sleep leads to good health, mood, immune system, and brain performance. Seven to nine hours of continuous sleep is needed to feel refreshed. Maintain good sleeping habits days before a flight to have enough energy for the trip.
Flying to countries with the same time zone or just an hour or two difference is easy. When traveling around the world, it is important to adjust to the day-night cycle of the destination. Watch out for the locals when it’s time to go to bed at night.
Vaccination
Vacations expose travelers to diseases, so timely immunization through vaccination is important. Influenza is one of the most common infectious diseases and it is contagious. Each infected person can spread the disease to one or two other people.
Preventive healthcare is still the best protection because people can get the flu at any time of the year. It’s also important to get a shot every year because flu vaccines change every year to match the current viruses.
Most importantly, you don’t want to miss out on all the fun you’ve planned for your trip if you get sick. Take it from GlaxoSmithKline Philippines’ (GSK) latest flu disease awareness jingle, “But I Got the Flu.” It’s a call to everyone to get your flu shots as soon as possible so you don’t get stuck – whether it’s having your best summer vacation, spending quality time with loved ones, or chasing the other passions in life – don’t let the flu stop you. you. All you need to do is consult your doctor to make sure you are in the right condition to do this.
“People are eager to do all the things they missed at the height of the pandemic. Now that travel restrictions are more relaxed and we can enjoy the best vacation destinations, it’s important that we don’t neglect our We recommend that travelers take preventive measures so that they are not prevented and enjoy their trips without worry,” said Dr. Kevin Bautista, GSK Medical Affairs Manager.
A health service message brought to you by GSK
For more information, please consult your doctor.
Only for Philippine audiences
Please send all adverse events to GSK Philippines via [email protected]
