Health Concerns When Traveling
-Philippines-
“Ingatan ang kalusugan,”
(PROTECT YOUR HEALTH)
Understanding Local Health Risks
Common Health Concerns: Expats in the Philippines should be aware of several health risks that may be more prevalent in tropical climates, including:
Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Dengue fever, malaria, and chikungunya are some common diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. While the risk varies by region, it's important to take preventive measures, especially during the rainy season.
Food and Water Safety: Gastrointestinal illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A are often linked to contaminated food or water. Ensuring proper food handling and drinking purified water are key preventive steps.
Heat-Related Illnesses: The hot and humid climate can cause dehydration, heatstroke, and sunburn, particularly if you're not used to tropical weather conditions.
Tips for Minimizing Health Risks:
Stay Vaccinated: Make sure you're up to date on recommended vaccinations before traveling to the Philippines, such as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and, in some cases, Rabies.
Use Preventive Measures: Wearing mosquito repellent, sleeping under a mosquito net, and wearing long clothing can reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
Practice Food Safety: Opt for well-cooked foods, peel fruits and vegetables, and drink only bottled or purified water to minimize exposure to waterborne illnesses.
Vaccines to Consider Before Traveling
Vaccines to Consider Before Traveling to the Philippines
Recommended Vaccinations: Before traveling to the Philippines, expats and travelers should ensure they're up to date on standard vaccines, as well as those specific to tropical regions. Some of the recommended vaccines include:
Hepatitis A & B: Commonly recommended due to risks from contaminated food, water, and possible contact with bodily fluids.
Typhoid: Essential for those traveling to smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sanitation may be limited.
Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended for long-term stays, particularly if you'll be visiting rural or agricultural areas where mosquito-borne infections are more prevalent.
Rabies: Consider this vaccine if you plan to be in remote areas, have prolonged stays, or engage in outdoor activities like biking or hiking, as the Philippines has a presence of stray animals.
Planning Your Vaccination Schedule:
Start Early: Some vaccines require a series of doses over weeks or months. Begin your vaccination plan at least 6–8 weeks before your departure.
Consult a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with a travel clinic to discuss your travel plans and receive tailored vaccine recommendations.
Stay Informed: Requirements can change, so it’s important to check for any updated guidelines from health authorities before you leave.
Safe Practices for Drinking Water and Food Consumption
Safe Practices for Drinking Water and Food Consumption in the Philippines
Drinking Water Safety: Water quality in the Philippines varies by location, and it’s important to take precautions to avoid waterborne illnesses:
Stick to Bottled or Purified Water: Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Always opt for bottled or filtered water, and ensure the bottle is sealed before purchasing.
Avoid Ice: Ice is often made from tap water, so it's best to avoid it in your drinks unless you're sure it comes from purified water.
Boil or Treat Water When Necessary: If bottled water isn't available, boiling water for at least one minute or using water purification tablets can help make it safe for consumption.
Food Safety Tips: While Filipino cuisine offers a wide variety of delicious dishes, ensuring food safety is crucial:
Eat Freshly Cooked Food: Opt for food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid street food that's been sitting out for a long time or exposed to the open air.
Fruits and Vegetables: Consume fruits and vegetables that can be peeled or are thoroughly washed. Avoid raw salads unless you’re sure they’ve been prepared with purified water.
Seafood and Meat: Make sure seafood is well-cooked, and meats are not undercooked to reduce the risk of foodborne pathogens.
Dealing with Traveler’s Diarrhea and Other Common Illnesses
Dealing with Traveler’s Diarrhea and Other Common Illnesses
Preventative Measures: While traveling in the Philippines, being prepared to handle common illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea can help you stay healthy and enjoy your trip:
Traveler’s Diarrhea: The most common ailment among travelers, usually caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Preventive measures include drinking only bottled or purified water, eating well-cooked meals, and avoiding raw or undercooked foods.
Heat-Related Illnesses: The hot climate can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours.
Motion Sickness: If you plan to travel by boat or in areas with winding roads, bring motion sickness medication or natural remedies like ginger to prevent nausea.
Recognizing Symptoms and Self-Care:
Traveler’s Diarrhea: Symptoms include frequent loose stools, abdominal cramps, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. Stay hydrated with rehydration solutions, and use over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication if needed. Seek medical help if symptoms are severe or persist for more than a couple of days.
Respiratory Infections and Colds: The mix of air-conditioned indoor spaces and outdoor humidity can cause respiratory issues. Drinking warm fluids, resting, and using lozenges or decongestants can help ease symptoms.
Bug Bites and Skin Irritations: Insect bites and skin allergies can be common, especially in rural areas. Use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and apply topical creams to soothe itching or inflammation.
Emergency Healthcare Options While Traveling
Emergency Healthcare Options Abroad in the Philippines
Steps to Take During a Medical Emergency: If you experience a medical emergency while in the Philippines, it's important to act quickly and know your options:
Contact Local Emergency Services: The nationwide emergency hotline in the Philippines is 911. If calling from a mobile phone, ensure you have sufficient load (credit) to make emergency calls.
Locate Nearby Hospitals or Clinics: It's wise to identify the nearest hospitals or clinics upon arrival, especially in rural areas where healthcare facilities may be limited. Private hospitals in major cities like Manila and Cebu tend to have better resources and English-speaking staff.
Have Travel Insurance Info Handy: Keep a copy of your travel insurance card and policy number with you at all times. Some hospitals may require upfront payment, and travel insurance can help cover emergency costs and facilitate faster care.
Accessing Local Emergency Services:
Ambulance Services: While ambulance services are available in major cities, response times can vary, and the level of care may differ from what you're used to. In urgent situations, it might be quicker to take a taxi or private car to the nearest medical facility.
Pharmacies: Pharmacies are widespread and typically open late. However, not all medications are available over the counter, so knowing the local name of your medication and having a copy of your prescription can be helpful.
Finding Reliable Healthcare Providers
How to Find Reliable Healthcare Providers in the Philippines
Finding Quality Medical Care: When seeking healthcare in the Philippines, it’s important to find reputable providers for both routine and emergency medical needs:
Research Hospitals and Clinics: Start by researching top-rated private hospitals and clinics in your area. Well-known hospitals in cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao often provide higher quality care and have English-speaking staff.
Use Expat or Travel Forums: Online communities like expat Facebook groups, travel forums, and health-focused websites can provide personal recommendations and reviews on local healthcare providers. Often, expats will share their experiences with specific doctors, hospitals, or clinics.
Check Accreditation and Certifications: Look for healthcare providers accredited by the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) or the Joint Commission International (JCI), which sets global standards for quality care.
Vetting Doctors, Hospitals, and Clinics:
Ask for Referrals and Recommendations: Get referrals from trusted locals, other expats, or your embassy. Reputable hospitals will often have referral services that can connect you to reliable specialists.
Visit in Person When Possible: Before scheduling any major procedures, visit the facility to check for cleanliness, modern equipment, and a professional environment.
Check for English Fluency and Communication: Make sure that doctors and medical staff are fluent in English or that the facility provides translators, ensuring clear communication about your medical concerns.
Managing Chronic Conditions While Traveling
Managing Chronic Conditions While Traveling in the Philippines
Maintaining Treatment Regimens: Traveling with a chronic condition requires preparation to ensure continuity of care:
Bring Sufficient Medication: Carry enough medication to last your entire stay, plus extra in case of unexpected delays. Ensure your medication is in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription.
Find Local Pharmacies: Larger cities in the Philippines have reliable pharmacies where you can refill prescriptions. However, availability may vary, so it’s important to know the local name of your medication and dosage.
Stick to Your Treatment Schedule: Maintaining your medication schedule while traveling through different time zones is crucial. Set reminders and ensure you have easy access to your medications at all times.
Preparing for Medical Needs:
Medical Records: Bring a summary of your medical history, including a list of medications, dosages, allergies, and emergency contacts. Keep both physical and digital copies.
Identify Local Specialists: Research and identify local healthcare providers or specialists who can manage your condition in case of flare-ups or emergencies.
Travel Insurance with Health Coverage: Ensure your travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions and that you have a plan in place for accessing care if needed.
Travel Health Insurance: What you Need to Know When Traveling
Travel Health Insurance: What You Need to Know for the Philippines
Overview of Insurance Options: Travel health insurance is essential when traveling to the Philippines to ensure that medical emergencies and routine care are covered. Here are the main types of coverage to consider:
Emergency Medical Coverage: Covers unexpected illnesses or accidents requiring medical treatment, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and sometimes emergency evacuation if necessary.
Comprehensive Coverage: Offers more extensive protection beyond emergencies, covering routine doctor visits, prescription medications, and dental care.
Trip Cancellation & Interruption: This type of policy helps protect your financial investment if your trip is delayed or canceled due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, family emergencies, or natural disasters.
Selecting the Right Plan:
Coverage & Limitations: Choose a plan that covers potential risks, such as the activities you plan to do (e.g., water sports), as well as any pre-existing conditions. Make sure to understand policy exclusions.
Geographic Coverage: Ensure that your insurance plan covers the entire Philippines, including any remote areas you plan to visit. Some plans have exclusions for certain regions or activities.
Claim Process & Network Providers: Look for a plan with a simple claims process and access to a wide network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers within the Philippines.
Packing a Travel Health Kit for a Trip
Packing a Travel Health Kit for the Philippines
Essential Items for Your Health Kit: When traveling to the Philippines, it's important to have a well-stocked travel health kit to handle common medical needs and minor injuries. Some basic essentials include:
First Aid Supplies: Adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, and medical tape for minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds.
Medications: Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen), anti-diarrheal medicine, antihistamines for allergies, and any prescriptions or daily medications you require.
Personal Hygiene Items: Hand sanitizer, insect repellent (to protect against mosquito-borne diseases), and sunscreen to prevent sunburns.
Customizing Your Kit Based on Destination & Needs:
Tropical Essentials: Since the Philippines is hot and humid, pack oral rehydration salts to help with dehydration and extra mosquito repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and malaria.
Activity-Based Needs: Tailor your kit based on your travel plans. For hiking or exploring rural areas, bring blister pads and a compact emergency blanket. If you plan on snorkeling or diving, consider including ear drops to prevent infections.
Personal Medical Requirements: Include any specific medical supplies or equipment needed for chronic conditions (e.g., blood glucose meter for diabetes). If you have severe allergies, carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen).
Understanding Local Medical Practices and Traditions
Understanding Local Medical Practices and Traditions in the Philippines
Alternative Medical Practices: The Philippines has a rich blend of traditional and modern healthcare practices. Alongside conventional Western medicine, you’ll find alternative treatments and indigenous health traditions:
Herbal Remedies (Hilot): "Hilot" is a traditional Filipino healing practice that uses massage techniques, herbal medicines, and oils to treat various ailments. It's commonly used for muscle pains, stress relief, and to improve circulation.
Faith Healers and Spiritual Practices: In some rural areas, "albularyos" (folk healers) or faith healers may be sought for physical and spiritual ailments, often using rituals, prayer, and natural remedies.
Traditional Medicine: Herbal teas, oils, and tinctures made from local plants like lagundi (used for cough and asthma) and tawa-tawa (believed to support recovery from dengue) are widely used for their perceived health benefits.
What to Expect from the Local Medical System:
Combination of Western and Traditional Medicine: While private and public hospitals predominantly follow Western medical practices, many Filipinos may still incorporate traditional remedies alongside modern treatments.
Approach to Care and Treatment: In some regions, care may be more community-oriented, with a focus on holistic wellness. Expect different attitudes towards treatment timelines and healthcare communication, particularly in rural areas.
Modern Healthcare in Urban Areas: In larger cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, medical practices are generally aligned with international standards, with access to modern equipment and English-speaking staff.
Dealing with Insect-Borne Diseases
Dealing with Insect-Borne Diseases in the Philippines
Common Vector-Borne Diseases: In the Philippines, tropical climates make mosquito-borne diseases a common concern. Some of the key diseases to be aware of include:
Dengue Fever: Present throughout the Philippines, with increased risk during the rainy season (June to November). Dengue symptoms include high fever, joint pain, and rashes.
Malaria: Less common in urban areas but found in rural and forested regions. The risk varies by province, and preventive medications are recommended for higher-risk zones.
Chikungunya and Zika Virus: These mosquito-borne viruses are also present in the Philippines but are less widespread than dengue. Symptoms are similar and often include fever, joint pain, and rash.
Prevention and Protection Tips:
Wear Protective Clothing: Light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants can help reduce skin exposure to mosquito bites.
Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. Reapply regularly, especially after sweating or swimming.
Mosquito-Proof Your Surroundings: Use mosquito nets while sleeping, particularly in rural or low-resource accommodations. Stay in places with air conditioning or screened windows and doors to reduce the risk of bites indoors.
Reducing Exposure by Region:
Urban vs. Rural Risk: The risk of diseases like malaria is low in major cities but increases in rural, forested, or coastal areas. Dengue can occur in both urban and rural settings, so prevention is crucial regardless of location.
Seasonal Changes: Pay attention to weather patterns, as the rainy season heightens mosquito activity. Plan your outdoor activities for daytime hours when mosquitos carrying malaria are less active (they are typically more active from dusk to dawn).
What to Do If You Get Sick While Traveling
What to Do If You Get Sick Abroad in the Philippines
Immediate Steps to Take: If you start feeling unwell while traveling in the Philippines, taking the right steps quickly can make a big difference:
Rest and Hydrate: At the first sign of illness, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and monitor your symptoms closely. If you suspect food poisoning or traveler’s diarrhea, oral rehydration solutions can help prevent dehydration.
Access Over-the-Counter Medications: Pharmacies are common in larger towns and cities, and most over-the-counter medications (like pain relievers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal tablets) are readily available. Pharmacists can often assist with minor illnesses.
Where to Find Assistance:
Visit a Local Clinic or Hospital: If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to see a doctor. Public hospitals are available but may have longer wait times, while private hospitals and clinics often offer faster service and higher-quality care.
Contact Your Embassy: Embassies can assist you in finding reputable healthcare providers, especially if you require specialized treatment or need help navigating the local healthcare system.
Navigating Language Barriers:
Use Translation Apps: Language barriers can be a challenge in rural areas where English is less commonly spoken. Translation apps or local health phrasebooks can help communicate your symptoms and medical history to healthcare providers.
Seek Hospitals in Major Cities: Larger hospitals in cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao typically have English-speaking staff who are familiar with treating expats and tourists. Many private facilities have international clinics specifically catering to foreign travelers.
Understanding the Local Pharmacy System
Understanding the Local Pharmacy System in the Philippines
Accessing Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications: The pharmacy system in the Philippines is generally accessible and convenient, especially in larger cities and towns. Here’s what to know:
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: Many common medications like pain relievers, cold and flu medicines, antihistamines, and antacids are available over the counter without a prescription. However, the brand names may differ from what you're used to, so knowing the generic name of the medication can help.
Prescription Medications: Certain drugs, especially antibiotics, controlled substances, and specialty medications, will require a prescription from a local doctor. Some pharmacies are stricter about this than others, so it’s best to have a valid prescription from a local healthcare provider to avoid issues.
Pharmacy Services and Availability:
Large Chains and Independent Pharmacies: You’ll find major chains like Mercury Drug and Watsons in urban areas, offering a broad selection of medications and healthcare products. Independent pharmacies are also common and may be more flexible in terms of services.
Availability of Medications: Most standard medications are easy to find, but availability may vary in rural areas, and some imported or specialty drugs might be less accessible. It's a good idea to bring an adequate supply of any essential medications you take regularly.
What to Expect from Pharmacy Services:
Pharmacists as a Resource: Pharmacists are generally knowledgeable and can help recommend OTC treatments for minor ailments. English is widely spoken in urban pharmacies, but communication may be more challenging in rural areas.
24-Hour Pharmacies: While not all pharmacies are open around the clock, some in larger cities do offer 24-hour services for emergencies.
Mental Health Resourses and Support
Mental Health Resources and Support in the Philippines
Finding Mental Health Services: Accessing mental health support in the Philippines can vary by location, but there are several options available for counseling, therapy, and general mental well-being:
Private Clinics and Hospitals: In larger cities like Manila and Cebu, private clinics and hospitals often have mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, offering counseling, therapy, and medication management. Booking an appointment in advance is recommended.
Online Therapy Services: Telehealth has become more popular, and online therapy platforms often connect expats with licensed therapists who speak English. These services are particularly helpful if you are in a rural area or prefer the comfort of remote sessions.
Community Support Groups: Expat communities often have support groups that address common challenges like adjusting to a new culture, loneliness, and other expat-specific concerns. You can find such groups on platforms like Facebook or Meetup.
Addressing Mental Health Emergencies:
Emergency Hotlines and Services: For immediate support, the National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline offers 24/7 assistance. Dial 1553 (toll-free nationwide) to connect with a counselor in case of a mental health crisis.
Hospital Emergency Rooms: If you or someone you know is experiencing a severe mental health emergency, such as suicidal thoughts, head to the nearest private hospital where immediate assistance is available. Larger hospitals often have mental health professionals on staff to provide urgent care.
What to Expect:
Cultural Differences in Care: Mental health awareness is growing in the Philippines, but approaches to treatment and attitudes toward mental health may differ from what you’re used to. Seek care from providers with experience in treating expats or who take a culturally sensitive approach.
Insurance Coverage: Check whether your travel or health insurance policy covers mental health services, as this can greatly ease the cost of accessing private care.
Staying Healthy During Long-Term Travel
Staying Healthy During Long-Term Travel in the Philippines
Maintaining Physical Health: Adopting a routine that supports physical wellness is essential when staying in the Philippines for an extended period:
Diet and Nutrition: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood are abundant in the Philippines, making it easy to maintain a balanced diet. Be mindful of food hygiene and lean towards home-cooked meals or restaurants with good hygiene standards to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Exercise Regularly: Take advantage of the natural beauty around you—beaches, mountains, and parks are great for outdoor activities like jogging, hiking, swimming, and yoga. If you prefer indoor workouts, local gyms and fitness centers are widely available in cities and many resorts.
Hydration and Sun Protection: The tropical climate can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of purified water throughout the day. Always wear sunscreen and protective clothing, as UV exposure can be strong, even on overcast days.
Supporting Mental Health: Long-term travel can be both exciting and challenging, so mental wellness is crucial:
Establish a Daily Routine: Consistency in daily habits like meal times, sleep schedules, and activities can help create a sense of stability while traveling.
Connect with Communities: Building a social support network through local expat communities, language classes, or hobby groups can help combat loneliness and provide a sense of belonging.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Practices: Incorporate stress-relief techniques like meditation, journaling, or simply spending time in nature to keep a balanced mindset.
Daily Wellness Routines:
Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize quality sleep by creating a comfortable sleep environment, even while moving between accommodations. Use earplugs or a sleep mask if needed, and maintain a regular bedtime.
Preventive Health Care: Regularly wash your hands, take vitamins if needed, and stay up-to-date on any vaccinations or medical check-ups.
Understanding Local Vaccination Requirements
Understanding Local Vaccination Requirements in the Philippines
Vaccination Regulations for Travelers and Expats: While the Philippines does not have strict vaccination requirements for entry, certain immunizations are strongly recommended to ensure your health and safety during your stay:
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines like MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. These are important not just for travel but for overall health.
Recommended Travel Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid are highly recommended for those staying in the Philippines, particularly if you plan to explore rural areas or eat local foods from street vendors. Japanese encephalitis is recommended for those staying for extended periods in rural, agricultural areas.
COVID-19 Regulations: Currently, the Philippines requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry, with some exceptions. Make sure to carry a digital or printed version of your vaccination card or certificate.
Meeting Immunization Requirements:
Consult with a Travel Health Clinic: Before traveling, visit a healthcare provider or travel health clinic to discuss necessary vaccinations based on your travel itinerary, health history, and activities planned in the Philippines.
Plan in Advance: Some vaccines, like Japanese encephalitis, may require multiple doses spread over several weeks. It's best to start your vaccination schedule at least 6-8 weeks before your travel date.
Carry Your Vaccination Records: Keep a copy of your vaccination records with you while traveling, as some locations or events may require proof of immunization.
Managing Jet Lag and Travel Fatigue When Traveling
Managing Jet Lag and Travel Fatigue
Minimizing Jet Lag: Long-distance travel to the Philippines can throw off your internal clock, especially if you're crossing multiple time zones. Here are some strategies to quickly adapt to the new time zone:
Gradual Schedule Adjustment: Start adjusting your sleep and meal times to match the local time in the Philippines a few days before you depart. This can help ease your body into the new schedule.
Exposure to Natural Light: Light exposure helps regulate your body's internal clock. Once you arrive, spend time outdoors in natural daylight, particularly in the morning, to help reset your circadian rhythm.
Melatonin Supplements: Consider using melatonin supplements to help manage your sleep cycle. Taking melatonin before bed can encourage sleep in line with the local time zone.
Rest and Hydration Tips for Long-Distance Travel:
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen jet lag and fatigue. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Minimize alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can disrupt sleep and contribute to dehydration.
Prioritize Sleep on the Plane: Use earplugs, eye masks, or noise-canceling headphones to rest while flying. Try to sleep based on the destination's time zone as much as possible to aid the transition.
Move and Stretch: During the flight, stand up, walk around, and do simple stretches to promote circulation and prevent stiffness.
Overall Well-Being and Recovery:
Plan Lightly for the First Few Days: Give yourself time to adjust upon arrival. Schedule low-energy activities and allow your body to recover before diving into more strenuous plans.
Balanced Meals and Exercise: Eating nutritious meals and incorporating light exercise like yoga or walking can help energize you and support a quicker adjustment to the new time zone.
Accessing Medication While Traveling
Accessing Medication Abroad in the Philippines
Sourcing Necessary Medications: Traveling to the Philippines with prescription medication requires some planning to ensure you have access to everything you need:
Bringing Enough Supply: Ideally, bring enough of your prescribed medications to last your entire stay, along with a few extra days’ worth in case of delays. Keep them in their original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription.
Refilling Prescriptions Locally: If you need to refill your medication while in the Philippines, most common prescriptions can be filled at larger pharmacies in urban areas like Mercury Drug or Watsons. Note that not all brands may be available, so it's helpful to know the generic name and dosage of your medication.
Visiting a Local Doctor: For medications requiring a prescription, you may need to consult a local doctor. Private hospitals and clinics in major cities usually have English-speaking doctors who can assist with this process.
Important Considerations for Transporting Medications:
Travel Documentation: Always carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and the necessity of the medication, especially for controlled substances. Some medications may be restricted or require additional permits.
Packing Medications Safely: Pack medications in your carry-on luggage to ensure they're easily accessible and protected from extreme temperatures. Use clear, resealable bags to organize medications, and ensure they remain sealed and labeled.
Country-Specific Rules: Check Philippine regulations on medication importation to make sure your prescribed drugs are allowed. Certain medications may be restricted or require pre-approval from Philippine authorities.
Dealing with Altitude Sickness and Motion Sickness
Dealing with Altitude Sickness or Motion Sickness
Understanding and Preventing Altitude Sickness: While most destinations in the Philippines are at low altitudes, certain areas like Mount Apo or the Cordillera mountain range reach higher elevations where altitude sickness can be a concern:
Symptoms: Symptoms often include headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue. They can start a few hours after reaching high altitudes and may worsen if not addressed.
Prevention Tips: Gradual ascent is key to reducing altitude sickness risk—take your time getting to higher elevations. Staying hydrated, eating high-carb meals, and avoiding alcohol or smoking can help your body acclimate.
Understanding and Preventing Motion Sickness: Whether traveling by car, ferry, or small boat between islands, motion sickness can be a common issue for expats and travelers in the Philippines:
Symptoms: Motion sickness may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, cold sweats, and headaches. Symptoms typically start shortly after motion begins and can last until the motion stops.
Prevention Tips: Sit in a position with minimal movement, like the front seat of a car, the middle of a boat, or over the wing of a plane. Keep your gaze fixed on the horizon, take deep breaths, and avoid heavy meals before traveling. Ginger, acupressure wristbands, and medication like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) can help prevent or alleviate symptoms.
Remedies and Practical Advice:
Altitude Sickness Remedies: If you start experiencing symptoms, descend to a lower altitude, rest, and avoid any further ascent until symptoms improve. Over-the-counter medications like acetazolamide can help your body adjust to higher elevations more quickly.
Motion Sickness Remedies: Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or meclizine can help prevent and alleviate symptoms. Natural remedies like ginger chews or teas and essential oils like peppermint or lavender can also provide relief.
Safety Tips for Eating Street Food
Safety Tips for Eating Street Food in the Philippines
Enjoying Street Food Safely: Street food is an essential part of Filipino culture, offering a variety of delicious and affordable options. To enjoy it safely, consider these precautions:
Choose Busy Vendors: Go where the locals go! Busy vendors with a high turnover are more likely to serve fresh food, as they cook and sell it quickly. A crowd is often a sign of good quality and cleanliness.
Watch Food Preparation: Opt for vendors who prepare food in front of you. Watching the cooking process ensures that the food is freshly cooked and reaches a safe temperature. Be cautious of pre-cooked foods sitting out for long periods, as they may harbor bacteria.
What to Look for in Hygiene and Preparation:
Cleanliness of the Stall: Check that the vendor is handling food with clean hands, utensils, and gloves. The stall should look tidy, and cooked and raw foods should be kept separate to prevent cross-contamination.
Choose Cooked or Peelable Foods: Foods that are cooked thoroughly are safer options, as the heat kills most bacteria and parasites. Fresh fruits that you can peel yourself (like bananas or mangos) are generally safer than pre-cut fruit.
Boiling Liquids and Steaming Hot Food: When in doubt, go for food that’s piping hot or boiling. Hot soup, grilled meats, or fried dishes are less likely to cause illness than food served at room temperature.
Other Safety Tips:
Start Small and Test Your Tolerance: If you’re new to street food, start with small portions to test how your stomach reacts. This helps you ease into unfamiliar dishes without overwhelming your system.
Stay Hydrated and Carry a Sanitizer: Keep a hand sanitizer or wet wipes on hand to clean your hands before eating. Also, stay hydrated by drinking bottled water, as street drinks or ice may sometimes come from unfiltered water.