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enough to fit almost anywhere. They stay closed and keep your medical supplies and your other belongings safe if something spills. Your “medical supplies” Ziploc bag should include an assortment of Band-Aids (different sizes). The Band-Aid product is superior to generic brands and worth the extra cost. Toss in two small gauze rolls, which can be used as a sling or as a bandage for a sore joint or wound. It is usually sufficient to wash small wounds with soap and water, but if your destination is a location where clean water and soap aren’t readily available, take several pads soaked with Betadine or alcohol pads. You might also consider packing a small roll of medical tape and a tube of triple antibiotic ointment or a small bottle of antibacterial gel. The “common medications” Ziploc bag should include a bottle of Robitussin DM (guaifenesin/dextramethorphan) syrup. This will not only help suppress your cough and make you more comfortable but will also let your traveling companion(s) have a restful night. Another good product to take is Benadryl (diphenhydramine), which is useful for nasal symptoms, allergic reactions, itching, bee stings, dizziness, and in somnia. Pepto Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is another versatile product that should be part of your medications arsenal. It works for heartburn, indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea. Even better, it is available in tablet form. Bismuth, by the way, colors the stool black—be forewarned not frightened. Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil (ibupro- fen), and aspirin should always be included in your medication pack. These work well for fever, aches, and pains. A good rule of thumb is to stay with the products that work well for you rather than experiment with others. The next useful item is a single-use disposable thermometer. Knowing whether you have a high fever makes good sense—a slightly elevated temperature may just be a nuisance, but a greatly elevated temperature should signal the need for professional medical assistance. Other optional items are dependent on your destination: sunscreen products (the newest contain HELIOPLEX—sunscreen stabilized with the technology to provide better UVA protection), chap stick, insect repellant spray, oral cold sore medications, and medication for motion sickness (this is especially good for cruises and is available over the counter as Dramamine or prescription products in the form of tablets or patches). An extra pair of sunglasses is also recommended. No matter where you are traveling, an updated tetanus shot is not a bad idea. For those traveling to exotic destinations, vaccines for specific diseases are necessary. These vaccines may need to be administered far in advance of your trip, so make certain to research which vaccines you might need quickly. A good source of accurate information is the local infectious disease travel center. Certain vaccines are avalable only at these centers, which have a database of current health risks conditions that might pose a threat to international travelers. If you are taking any prescription medic ations, place them in a separate bag and NEVER pack them in bags that will be checked in at an airport. (The statistics on luggage lost in transit are not improving. Lost luggage is always an inconvenience, but it should never become a health risk). Write down all your medications and keep the list in a wallet along with any history of allergies and a telephone number where your physician can be reached. Patients with a cardiac problem should also keep a miniaturized electrocardiogram in their wallets—this could save your life. One final note, if you are on prescription medications, take more than you need for your allotted vacation days. Your return may be delayed, or you may be having such a good time, you will decide to extend your vacation. Bon voyage! Correction. The photo caption on page 14 of the June 2006 issue of Our Life was incomplete and should have identified Nadia Sawczuk, President of the New York Regional Council (standing second from right). Our sincere apologies to Mrs. Sawczuk for the oversight.
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