Useful Info (Original Patient Education) JASE Medical

Do Your Children Know What to do In an Emergency?

Medical and other forms of preparedness include teaching the youngest in your family or group

Teaching kids how to manage medical emergencies is crucial. It empowers them to take appropriate actions and potentially save lives. Even young children can be taught basic skills that could save themselves or others lives. A recent example of this was when a 4 year old was able to call 911 after his mother fell down the stairs. He sang the address to the 911 operator.
Emergencies are unplanned. Having a plan in place, even for the very young is an essential part of emergency preparedness.

When teaching children what to do in an emergency :

Stay Calm: Lead by example. If children see you are staying calm, they will tend to be also. Emphasize the importance of staying calm during emergencies, as it helps them (and you) think clearly and act more effectively.

Emergency Action Plan: Work together to create a family emergency action plan, outlining roles and responsibilities during different emergencies.

Make it a fun activity: And repeat, repeat, repeat. Repetition along with making learning an enjoyable activity will reinforce behavior and skills.

Teach children emergency skills organized by age groups:

Age 1 to 3:

Identify Trusted Adults: Teach children the names and roles of trusted adults, such as parents, caregivers, EMS workers or teachers, who can help in emergencies. Familiarize children with EMS services by planning a trip to the fire department and police station. Children tend to be afraid of strangers (with good reason) and have been known to hide in closets and under beds when a fire had broken out in their home.

Basic Safety Rules: Start introducing basic safety rules, like not touching dangerous objects or going near potentially hazardous areas. Teach boundaries, such as not going outside without a trusted adult, staying away from the stove, swimming pool and streets. They are still young to really understand some boundaries, however consistency and repeat guidance will reinforce desired behavior now and as they grow.

Age 4 to 6:

Call for Help: Teach kids how to call for help using a phone or by finding a nearby adult if they encounter an emergency. This age group can learn how to access 911 or other emergency numbers specific to your area. Instruct how to place call and rehearse. In addition, make it a game while in the car or traveling and at home to have them memorize and rehearse their home address. Along with this, if there is a home emergency, teach children how to lock and unlock doors to the home.

Identify Emergency Services: Introduce emergency services like 911 or local emergency numbers, and explain when to call them (e.g., fire, police, medical). Just like age 1-3, familiarize children with another scheduled trip to the local fire and police department. This will reinforce that they are there to help and can alleviate fear and anxiety during an emergency.

Teach children what to do in the case a stranger approaches them or if they get separated from the group during an outing. Provide them with a whistle and show them how and when to use it: if they are lost (such as camping or hiking) or if they feel threatened. Supply them with a whistle on a lanyard around their neck or in a secure pocket on their clothing.

Age 7 to 9:

Basic First Aid Skills: This age group can start acquiring skills such as how to clean scrapes and bandaging minor cuts and scrapes. Teach simple first aid skills like cleaning and bandaging minor wounds, applying ice packs for bumps, and recognizing when to seek adult help.

Know Home Address: Ensure kids know their home address and how to provide it clearly during emergencies or when calling for help.

Age 10 to 12:

With age comes more advanced skills and responsibility.

Introduce CPR for children and the Heimlich maneuver for choking emergencies. Many hospitals and recreation departments hold classes for this age group. Enroll them in the course, then role play after they have gone through the instruction to reinforce these skills.

Familiarize with basic first aid kit This age group is capable of understanding and using many items in the first aid kit, however their judgement may not be adequate for all items. For instance, topical ointments may not be a good idea to apply directly into an eye injury. Explore with them the items in the first aid kit and instruct them on what they may use in it. It would be a good idea to put 3 by 5 cards with pictures and scenarios as to what they are able to use in the kit. Be sure the child knows when to seek adult help when they or someone they are with is injured.

Emergency Contact List: Create an emergency contact list with important numbers, including parents, relatives, neighbors, and emergency services. In addition, have a list of medical conditions and medications readily available in case they need to contact emergency services.

Age 13 and up

Young teens and up can learn to recognize different emergencies. This age can also learn how and when to use an emergency medical kit- a kit with basic over the counter medications (antihistamines and pain relivers, etc) under prior supervision and guidance.

Stress the importance to not attempt emergency aid beyond their capabilities and how to know when to seek help.

Tasks in this age group include: what to do in medical emergencies- a non-responsive person, a broken bone, burns, uncontrolled bleeding etc. These advanced skills can be taught by programs throughout the country. Check your local area for classes near you. It is strongly advised that they take the class in person and not online. A quick google search of courses show some are online. This may be okay if renewing their cpr or other certifications, however for first time certification and instruction, in person experience is necessary.

Using First Aid Kits: Show them how to use all items in a basic first aid kit and what each item is used for. This age group should be mature enough to understand and provide basic first aid.

Advanced First Aid Skills: Teach more advanced first aid skills like applying pressure to control bleeding, treating burns, and stabilizing fractures or sprains. If an AED is available, have them take the AED portion of the CPR course at the same time.

Repetition, practice and supervision

Practice emergency scenarios through role-playing, so kids become familiar with the actions they need to take. Engage and make it a part of your preparedness plan. FEMA has a youth preparedness section you may want to check out for natural and manmade disasters.

Additionally, always supervise and guide children when practicing emergency skills to ensure their safety and understanding.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

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Mosquito and Tick-Borne Diseases are on the Rise – Don’t be Their Next Victim

Mosquito and tick-borne illnesses have been in the news recently and for good reason- According to the CDC numbers of cases has tripled from 2004-2016. The disabling and sometimes deadly diseases they carry has taken a massive toll on the public. Outbreaks tend to occur in specific regions but recently disease outbreaks for both ticks and mosquitoes have spread to areas outside their normal areas. This has prompted warnings from health departments to take precautions in mosquito and tick infested areas.

It’s important to note that the distribution and prevalence of tick and mosquito borne diseases can vary by region and season. If you experience symptoms after a mosquito or tick bite, seek medical attention promptly for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

(For a complete list of viruses and parasites that mosquitos carry in the United States go here: CDC list of mosquitos and diseases)

Ticks

Disease carrying ticks are found in all areas of the United States. Each region has its unique set of ticks, however in recent years outbreaks of ticks in areas not normally found have been discovered.

Ticks are vectors for several diseases, meaning they can transmit these diseases to humans and animals when they bite and feed on their blood. Some of the common diseases carried by ticks include:

Lyme Disease: Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted primarily by black-legged ticks in the United States. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more severe symptoms affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. Based on insurance records, it is estimated that each year approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease. The highest incidence of Lyme disease is in Vermont and Delaware; however, Wisconsin and Minnesota have also had outbreaks. Lyme is spreading and has the highest incidence of tickborne diseases. If the tick bite caught early, a round of antibiotics which are found in the Jase Case can help prevent long term disability.

Alpha gal syndrome– Although not a disease, alpha gal syndrome can cause an allergy to red meat. Symptoms include rash, nausea, diarrhea, drop in blood pressure, severe stomach pain. Symptoms appear after eating meat dairy products or medications that contain alpha gal (gelatin coated medications) It is believed to be caused by the lone start tick and is found primarily in among people living in the South, East, and Central United States.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): is primarily transmitted by the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick. Symptoms may include fever, headache, rash, and muscle aches. RMSF can be severe and even fatal if not treated promptly. Most cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever have been reported in the eastern U.S., including Georgia, Oklahoma, both North and South Carolina and Tennessee.

Ehrlichiosis: Ehrlichiosis is caused by various species of the bacterium Ehrlichia and is transmitted by lone star ticks and other ticks. Symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and sometimes rash. Severe cases can result in organ failure if not treated. Most cases are found south-central, southeastern, and mid-Atlantic states.

Anaplasmosis: Anaplasmosis is caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum and is transmitted primarily by black-legged ticks. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Like ehrlichiosis, severe cases can lead to organ failure if left untreated. Most cases have been reported in upper Midwest and northeastern United States in areas that correspond with the known geographic distribution of Lyme disease.

Babesiosis: Babesiosis is caused by parasites and is transmitted by black-legged in the United States. It can also be transmitted through blood transfusions. Symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, and anemia, which can be severe in people with weakened immune systems. Babesiosis is most frequently reported from the Northeastern and Upper Midwestern United States

Powassan Virus Disease: Powassan virus is a rare but potentially serious viral infection transmitted by black-legged ticks and the groundhog tick. It can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). In the US, cases are most often seen in the Northeast and the Great Lakes regions.

It’s important to note that the prevalence of these tick-borne diseases can vary by region, and some ticks may carry multiple pathogens.

Tick Removal (Excerpt from CDC)

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. The key is to remove the tick as soon as possible. Avoid using nail polish, petroleum jelly, or heat to make the tick detach from the skin.
Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If you are unable to remove the mouth parts easily, leave them alone and let the skin heal.
After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water

Mosquitos- The world’s deadliest animal, according to the CDC

In the United States, mosquitoes can carry several diseases that pose a threat to public health. Some of the mosquito-borne diseases found in the United States include:

Malaria in Texas and Florida recently discovered. The CDC issued Health Alert Network Health Advisory to notify and share information to clinicians, public health officials and general public. These are the first cases since 2003.In 2002, malaria alone was responsible for around 627,000 deaths worldwide. Symptoms usually start 10 to 15 days after a bite from an infected mosquito, include high fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and fatigue.

West Nile Virus (WNV): WNV is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Most people infected with WNV do not show symptoms, but some may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In rare cases, WNV can cause severe neurological complications and even death. In 2021, an outbreak in Maricopa County, Florida of 1,487 human WNV cases were identified; 956 (64.3%) patients had neuroinvasive disease, and 101 (6.8%) died.

Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding tendencies. Dengue is common in the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

La Crosse Encephalitis (LAC): LAC is caused by the La Crosse virus. It primarily affects children and can cause encephalitis with symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Outbreaks occur from midwestern states to mid-Atlantic and Southeastern states.

Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE): SLE is caused by the Saint Louis encephalitis virus. Most outbreaks Most people infected with SLE may not show symptoms, but some may experience fever, headache, dizziness, and, in severe cases, encephalitis. Periodic outbreaks occur year-round in Southern states where weather is temperate and Southwest, Eastern and Central states.

Mosquito and tick prevention

Use insect repellent: DEET and other commercially available products have good repellant properties, however it is best to spray on clothing and not directly on skin especially when using on children. If using an essential oil-based repellant, do a patch test by applying to an area of the skin and waiting an hour to make sure there is no reaction. If no reaction (red skin, rash) Use on skin but essential oils must be applied every hour or so for efficacy. Avoid applying to children’s hands, eye area and mouth.

Essential oils that are commonly used as insect repellents:

Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: Lemon eucalyptus oil contains a compound which has been found to be as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes. The CDC recognizes lemon eucalyptus oil as an effective natural repellent.

Other essential oils with insect repelling properties are: citronella, lavender, peppermint, geranium, cedarwood and tea tree oils.

When using essential oils as repellents, dilute them properly before applying to the skin. Pure essential oils can be irritating to the skin. Mix the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil, before applying to the skin. Aim for 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.

Additionally, it’s essential to note that essential oils may not provide as long-lasting protection as commercially available repellents. Reapply them more frequently, especially if you’re in an area with a high concentration of ticks and mosquitoes.

While these studies provide evidence of the repellent properties of essential oils against insects, using essential oils as the sole means of protection in high-risk areas may not be as effective as using EPA-registered insect repellents with proven efficacy.

Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors in areas where ticks and mosquitoes are common, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure.
Avoid peak activity times: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, while ticks are more active in warm and humid conditions.
Perform regular tick checks: thoroughly check your body and clothing for ticks, especially areas like the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, inside the belly button, around the waist, and between the legs.
Shower after outdoor activities: Taking a shower can help wash away ticks and reduce the risk of bites.
Use tick prevention methods for your pets to minimize the risk of bringing ticks into your home. Check pets thoroughly before letting them enter your home.
Create a tick-safe zone: keep the grass short and remove leaf litter to reduce tick habitats
Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so regularly empty or remove sources of standing water around your home.
Stay on marked trails: When hiking or walking in wooded areas, stay on marked trails and avoid walking through tall grass or brush where ticks are more prevalent.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

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Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: Tips to Beat the Heat and Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses

Summer- a time of long, endless days of warm weather that children across the country look forward to when school lets out. Swimming, hiking, bicycling, and even setting up camp and stargazing in the backyard are the stuff that fond memories are made of.

All these fun activities, however, can pose potential illness or danger, especially when its hot outside.

Heat wave sweeps the country

Record breaking heat was recorded in Miami, Austin and Phoenix over the past few days. Even Portland Oregon, usually known for its cooler weather broke daily records. You don’t have to have record breaking weather to suffer overexposure to sun and heat. One recent and very heartbreaking story out of Vancouver was of a one-year-old child that died from heat stroke in a car while the outdoor temperature was only 70-75 degrees. The inside of the car reached 110 degrees. According to the National Safety Council on average more than 38 children from the ages of 1-15 die from heatstroke, mostly from being in a hot car. July is the month that most of these deaths occur, according to the website.

That quick trip into the store for a quart of milk could prove dangerous, even fatal to a young child left unattended in a vehicle.

Populations most at risk for heat related illnesses
Heat related illnesses can affect anyone but certain populations are more prone than others. These include:

Age: Infants, young children, and elderly individuals are more susceptible to heat related illnesses. Both children and elderly have a reduced ability to regulate body temperature.

High heat exposure: High temperatures for extended periods, especially during a heat wave, can put anyone at risk for heat related illness.

High humidity: When the humidity is high, the body’s ability to cool down through sweating is reduced, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke.

Chronic health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, obesity, and diabetes, can reduce the body’s ability to handle heat stress, making individuals more susceptible to heat stroke.

Medications: Some medications can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Take precautions if on any medications. The following is a brief list- check your specific medication for more information:

Anticholinergic drugs: These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in various bodily functions, including sweating. By reducing sweating, these drugs can hinder the body’s ability to cool down effectively. Examples include certain antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, and medications for overactive bladder.

Diuretics: Diuretics, commonly known as water pills, increase urine production, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration impairs the body’s ability to regulate temperature, making it harder to dissipate heat. Some diuretics cause electrolyte imbalances which can further compromise health.

Beta-blockers: Beta-blockers are used to treat various conditions, including high blood pressure and heart conditions. They can reduce the heart rate and limit the body’s response to heat, potentially interfering with temperature regulation.

Psychotropic medications: Certain medications used to treat mental health conditions, such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, can affect the body’s heat regulation mechanisms, leading to increased heat sensitivity. This is an often-overlooked class of drugs. Be sure to check with pharmacist or read side effects of these drugs before heading off into the heat.

Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, especially those that affect serotonin levels, can impact the body’s thermoregulatory systems, potentially causing an increased risk of heat-related issues.

Antihypertensive medications: Some medications used to lower blood pressure, such as alpha-blockers, can impact the body’s response to heat and affect blood flow to the skin.

Alcohol and drug use: Alcohol and certain drugs can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature and increase the risk of heat stroke.

Physical activity: Physical activity, particularly in hot and humid conditions, can raise the risk of heat stroke, especially if adequate hydration is not maintained. If not acclimated to the heat this can pose a serious health risk.

Lack of acclimatization: Individuals who are not accustomed to hot weather or are not acclimatized to the heat may be more susceptible to heat stroke. This is especially true for those living in or working in air-conditioned buildings.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke- know the signs and what to do

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two distinct heat-related illnesses, with heat stroke being the more severe condition.

CDC excerpt on heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

Avoid

When the temperature is very high stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress properly and take breaks often. Know who is at high risk for heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Tips to Beat the Heat

Drink plenty of water! (I will add that electrolyte drinks such as these can replace lost fluids and prevent electrolyte imbalance
Check on friends and neighbors at high risk for heat-related illness
Find airconditioned places to cool off (shopping malls and libraries)
NEVER leave kids or pets in a closed, parked vehicle
If you go outside, remember:
- A hat
- Sunscreen (spf 15 or higher)
- Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
- Water
- Limit time outdoors. Take breaks often
Know who is at high risk:
- Infants
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with chronic medical conditions

Spot

Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Heat Stroke

Signs & Symptoms

Very high body temperature (above 103°F)
Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
Rapid, strong pulse
Throbbing headache
Dizziness
Upset stomach
Confusion
Passing out

Heat Exhaustion

Signs & Symptoms

Heavy sweating
Paleness
Muscle cramps
Tiredness
Weakness
Dizziness
Headache
Upset stomach or vomiting
Fainting

If you see any of these signs, get medical help immediately.

Treat

While waiting for medical attention, you can help someone with heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Heat Stroke

Move the victim to a shady area or indoors. Do not give the person fluids.

Cool the body by:

Placing person in a cool (not cold) bath or shower
Spraying with a garden hose
Sponging with cool water
Fanning

Continue efforts to cool the person until help arrives or his or her body temperature falls below 102°F and stays there.

Heat Exhaustion

Get medical attention if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.

Cool the body with:

Cool, nonalcoholic beverages
Rest
A cool (not cold) bath, shower, or sponge bath
Moving to an airconditioned room
Wearing lightweight clothing

Seek medical help immediately if symptoms are severe or if victim has heat problems or high blood pressure.

Taking just a few precautions will ensure you and your child will have a fun and adventure filled summer.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

World War 3 Draws Closer to Reality- Are You Prepared?

China prepares for its annual war exercises outside of Taiwan with an unprecedented number of war planes, sparking fears of an escalating conflict.

In an interview with MSNBC Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu was asked if China could accidentally spark a conflict that could lead to war he states: “It is possible. If you look at the history of war, there are plenty of wars out of accidents — out of inadvertent accidents.”

The United States has a history of maintaining close unofficial ties with Taiwan, and has approved 9 sales of military equipment since the start of the current administration, which experts agree has inflamed China.

The terrifying reality is not just a supply chain disruption, but the possibility of nuclear war grows every day.

The escalating threats across the globe- mainly China, Russia and North Korea along with their supporting countries set the stage for sanctions, raw material scarcity and port interruptions that are becoming more of a reality every day.

In fact, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued a press release after the US authorized delivery to Ukraine of nuclear capable F-16 jets by stating “Russia cannot ignore the ability of these aircraft to carry nuclear weapons. No number of assurances will help here,” Lavrov was quoted as saying by the Russian Foreign Ministry. “In the course of combat operations, our servicemen are not going to sort out whether each particular aircraft of this type is equipped to deliver nuclear weapons or not.

“We will regard the very fact that the Ukrainian armed forces have such systems as a threat from the West in the nuclear sphere.” No specific country has been scheduled to deliver the F-16 jets as of this writing, however. (Quotes retrieved from The Moscow Times)

Medical supplies already in short supply and even rationed

In Connecticut’s largest hospital, Lori Lee, senior vice president of clinical operations at Yale New Haven Health “There are probably hundreds of outages of items that we order that do not come in,” She says the list of shortages includes basics such as IV tubing and catheters, which are used constantly in hospitals. Her story isn’t the only one. Across the nation, hospitals, clinics and pharmacies are reporting chronic shortages of drugs, supplies and even lifesaving equipment and parts to fix the machines.

The 10^th annual Report for Drug Shortages for 2022 has listed drug supply shortages that dwarf pandemic era shortages. In the past year, FDA has seen manufacturers in the United States and abroad continue to experience quality issues as well as struggle with capacity constraints. Additionally, as demand increased for numerous drugs over the last several years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as an earlier than typical flu and respiratory virus season, FDA has seen additional strain on the pharmaceutical supply chain.

Root Cause of Drug shortages

The 2019 Drug Shortages Report, Updated February 21, 2020 lists :

Lack of Incentives to Produce Less Profitable Drugs,
Market Does Not Recognize and Reward Manufacturers for Mature Quality Management Systems, and
Logistical and Regulatory Challenges Make It Difficult for the Market to Recover After a Disruption. This is probably the single most pressing reason for the massive drug and medical supply shortage. Given the port delays and possible sanctions from China(where most of our drugs are manufactured) the report goes on to state:” Over the past two decades, the drug supply chain has become longer, more complex and fragmented as companies have located more production overseas. Although typical markets would respond to a shortage by increasing production, logistical and regulatory challenges, especially the complexity of the supply chain, can limit the ability of drug manufacturers to increase production. When companies wish to increase production, either by modifying an existing facility or building a new one, they may have to obtain approvals from many different national regulatory bodies, and/or find a new source of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). If a new manufacturer wants to enter the U.S. market and start selling a drug that addresses a shortage, the manufacturer must first develop and file an application with FDA and await its approval.”

We haven’t seen anything yet, in the realm of drug and medical supply shortages. It is easy to let our guard down, especially when summer activities beckon us to the great outdoors. However, with everything ramping up at warp pace, please take the time to itemize and replenish your stock of medications, both prescription and over the counter, along with food, water, and shelter (heating for winter). Keep a positive attitude and don’t get paralyzed by all the news. Use it to motivate you into action. If you haven’t already, speak to your care provider about obtaining a year’s worth of prescription medications. If they are unable to, check out Jase Daily list of over 800 and counting medications and get that years supply -before everything shuts down-which may be sooner than we think.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Planning a Trip Abroad? Avoid Being Detained(or worse) When Traveling With Your Prescription Medications

The Transportation Safety Association (TSA) reported a record number of air travel over the fourth of July weekend this year, with one day counting over 2.8 million screenings, surpassing even pre pandemic numbers. With travel restrictions lifted, many are taking advantage of travel to domestic and foreign destinations.

Careful planning, research and preparation will make your trip enjoyable and can avoid delays and even being detained (and according to the CDC- fines and possible jail time) from entering a country. International travel medications rules are really not much different than flying cross country. each country has specific rules and regulations, just as each state has its specific aws and rules.

Tips when traveling with medications

Plan

Each country has its own laws related to medicines. Medicines that are commonly prescribed or available over the counter in the United States might be unlicensed or considered controlled substances in other countries. While rules vary by country, there can be serious consequences if you violate the laws at your destination. (fines or even jail)

Check CDC travelers health website for complete list of countries health advisories and other information regarding permitted medications.

In addition to travel health advisories, the State Department has a list of countries for general advisories (Safety, etc) that you may want to review.

At least one month before your trip, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Obtain a written list of your medications and what you need them for. This is especially true for injectable items such as EpiPens and prefilled insulin pens. Security in other countries may not be familiar with these devices and may detain and question you. In addition to injectables, any special equipment, such as cpap machine, obtain a note from your care provider as to what the device is and why you need it.

Fill all prescriptions and bring extra. Even with the best executed plan, delays and emergencies happen. Be sure you have extra medication with you on your trip.

Keep medications in their original containers if able and them keep with you. Exemptions to the 3-ounce liquid rule apply to prescription medications. Don’t check in any drugs that you may need in the event that your luggage is lost or delayed.

Check your health insurance- are you covered when in another country? Have a copy of your insurance policy on your phone or in paper form and keep it with you. If your health insurance policy doesn’t cover you in a foreign land, look into a health insurance policy for the duration of your trip. A quick Google search brought up some reputable insurance companies, such as Blue Cross that offers travel health insurance. Do your research.

If you get sick or need medical attention while abroad, check out this list of embassies that can help you locate medical help. Also, check with The American Board of Medical Specialists for authoritative reference on physicians abroad.

Be proactive about possible health emergencies. Have a stock of pain relievers, antihistamines, antidiarrheal, motion sickness, and fever reducing meds along with a basic first aid kit for minor injuries and illnesses. For that added layer of insurance, bring your Jase emergency antibiotics kit. It could save you a trip to a hospital or clinic. (food poisoning, urinary tract infection, infected wound, mosquito borne illness,etc.)

Other health related tips

Avoid drinking water from other countries, this includes water served on airplanes. To avoid waterborne illness, drink only bottled or treated water. If you go to a restaurant and the area is known for questionable water quality, avoid salads and any food rinsed in water along with ice in drinks. After using restroom, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Make it a habit to use sanitizer liberally and often.

Carry electrolyte powder if traveling or exercising in hot and/or humid country. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke. Also, dress appropriately for your outings. Wear broad brimmed hat, long sleeved light cotton shirt and avoid mid-day excursions and activities if hot weather is an issue. Plan trips early in the day,

Insect repellant/mosquito repellent- if in malaria endemic country apply mosquito repellant often and liberally. Doxycycline, one of the Jase emergency antibiotics, is one of the first line drugs that can treat malaria. It is a widely prescribed prophylactic when traveling in maria infested areas.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Planning a Trip This Summer? Don’t forget your Portable Medical Kit!

Whether planning an extended vacation or a last-minute weekend getaway, emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere. A portable, grab and go kit that carries not just basic first aid supplies but things you may need to prevent or manage minor illnesses can keep you and your family from having to interrupt your plans by seeking medical attention.

Depending on where you are headed- the great outdoors or jetting out of town, there are always a few things that traveling anywhere has in common.

Your schedule is different, so your immunity is lower. Even if you plan your trip around your awake/asleep cycle, the very fact you are traveling makes life stressful. Stress doesn’t necessarily have to be a negative event. Even “good” stress can compromise health- Negotiating travel- whether by car or plane can be stressful. The end goal may be geared toward a fun filled vacation, but getting there may not be. Our immune system isn’t too happy with us when we are stressed and tends to not be as strong. Strange water, food, schedules and new areas traveled can set us up for illnesses we normally would shake off. For instance, you pull into a roadside restaurant (or airport food court) for a quick bite. You eat and leave, not knowing that the food wasn’t thoroughly cooked (rush hour). Several hours later, diarrhea, vomiting and low grade fever hit. These are classic signs of salmonella poisoning (from contaminated food). When functioning properly, the stomach has natural defenses against salmonella poisoning. The high acid content kills the bacteria. However, when our regular diet and routine are interrupted, we can succumb to illnesses that normally wouldn’t affect us.

If able, have a cooler full of foods you normally eat to snack on your trip. Try not to eat out if possible. If traveling by plane, purchase bottled water, avoid drinking faucets (dangerous bacteria has been found in drinking fountain water) Bring extra food in case plane is delayed.

Portrait of woman drinking water outdoor

2. Heat and travel don’t mix- Be sure to keep plenty of water and electrolyte mix on hand . Dehydration is a very serious condition, leading to kidney failure and death. If you are traveling in an area known to be hot (even if it isn’t) be sure to pack electrolyte powder in your portable medical kit. If possible, travel early in the morning before the heat of the day. Keep a water bottle filled with water for each passenger in the car. Don’t forget about pets; remember a water dish and extra food for them also. Have at least an extra gallon of water stored in addition to each person’s water bottles.

3. Take frequent breaks- if traveling by car, trade drivers. Highway hypnosis is real. The monotonous job of driving for hours can lead to falling asleep at the wheel even though you don’t realize it. Take advantage of travel rest areas. Get out and stretch your legs. If you are the sole driver and are feeling fatigued be sure to pull over and take a nap or find a hotel if it is getting late.

In addition to a standard first aid kit, a travel medical kit should be added for extended trips away from home.

Mother dressing the wound on her little daughters knee with medicine in spray. Accident happened during family summer vacation trip

This type of kit should include:

Extra prescription medication and any otc supplements or vitamins- at least several days more than you think you may need in case your trip home is delayed.
Anti diarrheal medication (Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
Age appropriate fever and pain reliever for all in group) Tylenol, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.)
Antihistamine for allergic reactions and seasonal allergies
Sunscreen (with UVA and UVB protection, SPF 15 or higher)
Sunburn cream or Aloe gel
Moist towelettes to wipe hands in case there is no clean water at rest stations or airport restrooms.
Electrolyte powder packs
Travelers’ diarrhea antibiotic (check out Jase case antibiotics if you haven’t already)
Diarrhea medicine (Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
Antacid (Tums)
Motion sickness medicine (Dramamine)
Cough drops, cough suppressant, or expectorant
Mild laxative
Hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol) or antibacterial hand wipes
Water purification tablets
Insect repellent (with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin) Some essential oils have proven insect repellant properties. Check out this research paper for more information.
Insect bite anti-itch gel or cream (calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream)
Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
Tweezers
Paper cups

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

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