HMC travel health advisory provides essential health tips to help Qatar’s residents stay safe during international holidays. Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the country’s main public healthcare provider, released a set of clear travel guidelines for the public, with a focus on individuals managing chronic conditions.
HMC urges all travellers to visit their doctor before departure. People with diabetes, heart disease, kidney issues, or pregnancy should seek medical clearance and personalized advice. Travellers should consult a travel medicine specialist at least four to six weeks before their trip.
The advisory urges individuals to avoid areas with active disease outbreaks. HMC also recommends securing health insurance that covers international medical emergencies.
Through the HMC travel health advisory, the healthcare provider stresses proactive steps. Travellers should update their vaccinations early, pack all necessary medications, and include remedies for allergies and gastrointestinal issues. For high-risk destinations, they should consider vaccines like cholera, yellow fever, or typhoid—ideally two weeks before departure.
To prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria, HMC advises travellers to wear long-sleeved clothing at night and apply insect repellent. In areas with poor food safety, travellers should drink bottled or boiled water. They should skip raw seafood, cold salads, and street food. Washed or peeled fruits and vegetables are safer options.
HMC strongly advises against swimming in untreated lakes and rivers in areas known for diseases like schistosomiasis.
Travellers with chronic conditions should carry enough medication for the entire journey. They should keep medications in original packaging and bring a copy of their prescriptions. It’s wise to pack extra supplies in case of travel delays.
Pregnant women in stable condition can travel with their doctor’s approval. They should bring a medical certificate, wear loose clothes, stay hydrated, and avoid lifting heavy bags. During flights, they should walk every 30 minutes and stretch to lower the risk of blood clots. HMC recommends avoiding destinations with Zika, malaria, or yellow fever during pregnancy.
The HMC travel health advisory also encourages everyone to update routine vaccines such as tetanus, polio, and hepatitis. Adequate sleep, healthy routines, and smart planning help reduce illness while abroad.
With clear guidance and early planning, the HMC travel health advisory aims to ensure that Qatar’s travellers enjoy healthy, stress-free holidays.
