[First aid kits: for whom and why?]

Abstract

Anyone traveling far from home should take along a first aid kit. Contents should be chosen carefully with the awareness that infection is not the main problem facing travelers. The basic kit is the same regardless of the purpose or duration of the trip or of the health and knowledge of the traveler. Priority should be given to allergic risks, to the quality of the thermometer, to the packaging of indispensable medications to a medical certificate justifying transport of drugs and syringes for personal medical use, and to preventive devices for sexually transmitted diseases. Travel in tropical zones raises special requirements especially with regard to infectious risks such as traveler's diarrhea, malaria, fungal and bacterial contamination. Protection against insect-borne disease and sun exposure are also important considerations for travel in the tropics. Depending on planned activities, travelers should carry medication for prevention and treatment of motion sickness and emergency treatment of envenimation. Due to local inavailabilities, it may be necessary to pack contraceptives, personal hygiene products, and common medications.