During the trip

You can, of course, get sick during the trip. Most conditions, such as travellers' diarrhoea or an upper respiratory tract infection, are relatively harmless and usually go away on their own. 
If you become ill during your trip, it is best to consult a local doctor. This is especially important if you have a fever, shortness of breath or diarrhoea with blood or mucus. Contact your travel and/or health insurance company see the emergency number on the back of your insurance card).

Hygiene rules during the trip

General

  • Wash hands after using the toilet, before cooking and before eating. Use hand alcohol if necessary.
  • Food that is contaminated often looks normal and often smells and tastes good. So don't just rely on food's appearance, taste, and smell. 

Drinks

  • Not all water is drinking water! In many countries, this also applies to tap water; 
  • Avoid ice cubes;
  • You can drink tea and coffee prepared with well-boiled water.
  • Don't drink uncooked milk;

Food

  • If possible, only eat fruit that has been peeled by yourself;
  • If you prepare your meal yourself, wash vegetables and fruit in clean, boiled water or mineral water;
  • Do not eat raw or semi-raw meat (tartar) or fish;
  • Do not eat unpackaged ice cream or milkshakes. Packaged is usually not a problem;
  • Food must be well heated. If it cools down too much and remains standing too long, pathogens can multiply in it. Therefore, also pay attention to the food temperature at buffets in (all-inclusive) hotels and restaurants. 
     
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Radboud Travel and Vaccination Desk Travel advice Before, during and after

Inform and insure

  • Know how to reach an embassy or consulate in case of an emergency;
  • A copy of the passport/driver's license speeds up the replacement in the event of theft;
  • Visit the dentist before going on a long trip;
  • Inquire in advance whether your health insurance covers the costs of repatriation to the Netherlands;
  • Check to what extent treatment costs are covered abroad;
  • You always need travel insurance to compensate for the loss and theft of your belongings;
  • In the event of illness or accident, contact your travel and/or health insurance company immediately (see the emergency number on the back of your insurance card).