Use of travel health services has
increased
Travel health advice and
immunization for travelers is mandated under the Infectious Diseases Program,
which states, “The Board of Health shall provide or ensure the availability of
travel health advice and immunization for travelers” (Mandatory Health
Programs and Services Guidelines, December 1997).
Travel health advice is
available to the public and physicians’ offices by calling the Health Info Line.
In 2006, the Renfrew County & District Health Unit received 959 travel calls
as compared to 588 calls in 2005. Travel health information calls are the most
popular type of calls received by the Health Info Line.
When someone asks for travel
health advice, the nurse completes with the traveler a “Pre-travel
Questionnaire” which identifies the destination, purpose of the trip, type of
accommodation, departure date and medical history.
The nurse determines the
traveler’s need for immunization depending on their health situation, previous
immunization history and travel itinerary. Information is
provided regarding vaccines, including the cost, and recommendations on
travel topics such as food and water safety, sun protection and traveler’s
diarrhea.
A travel information package
is provided which includes the booklet “A Guide to Healthy Travel” and
information specific to the travel destination. Travelers can receive their
immunizations at the Health Unit’s Travel Health Clinic on Wednesdays in
Pembroke, or at immunization clinics in Petawawa, Renfrew, Arnprior,