Traveling With HIV/AIDS

Proper treatment of HIV or AIDS gives you the opportunity to live a full life that includes travel. But because some travel can come with the risk of infections, you'll need to take precautions and prepare yourself.

Talk to your doctor about your trip at least 4-6 weeks before. They can tell you about any health risks in that region and whether you need vaccines. They'll let you know what medications to take if you get sick while you're away. Your doctor might also be able to recommend doctors in the area.

The water and food in some countries have germs that can make you sick. Drink bottled water, don't drink iced beverages, and don't eat raw fruits or veggies while abroad. Hot drinks and hot food should be safe.

Traveler's diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness. You can help prevent it by washing your hands and eating and drinking with caution, but go prepared to treat it just in case. Your doctor can prescribe medication, typically antibiotics, that you can take with you.

Germs in the drinking water may also be in lakes, rivers, and swimming pools. If you get in the water, don't swallow it or let any of it in your mouth. Avoid getting into natural bodies of water if you have open wounds.

Many countries have bugs that carry diseases. You can protect yourself against bites and stings that could cause infection by using insect repellents with DEET and sleeping under mosquito netting treated with permethrin-based repellent.

You're at higher risk of becoming sick with TB when you have HIV. In fact, TB is considered an AIDS-defining condition. That means, once you have it, your disease has progressed to AIDS. Don't go to clinics or hospitals that treat people with TB, and get a TB test as soon as you get back home.

It can be easy to miss a dose of your pills when you get out of your regular routine. But going on vacation doesn't mean taking a vacation from your meds. Stay on schedule with your prescriptions while you travel. Bring extra (or bring prescriptions you can fill) in case your luggage is lost or your return trip is delayed.

Vacation often means eating totally different foods from what you usually eat at home. But if you're on a special diet to manage your HIV, you'll need to stick to it while you're away. Research ahead of time to make sure you'll be able to get the foods you need at your destination. Locate supermarkets near your hotel or restaurants that serve the foods on your plan.

Animal poop is filled with harmful bacteria and germs that could make you very sick. Wear shoes any time you walk outside. If you sit on the ground, use a towel or blanket as a barrier. Wash your hands well if you come in contact with an animal.