The recent rash of illness on the Disney Magic has me thinking about staying healthy on vacation. The Disney Magic case is not unusual -- several hundred passengers contracted a mild stomach illness after being in close quarters with one another on their cruises. Disney immediately ordered the ship and all ship-related areas (buses, terminal, etc.) cleaned and disinfected to prevent further spread of germs, though it seems there are some lingering but dwindling effects. But the simple fact is that this is the season for colds and flu, and we're more likely to pick up germs when we travel. So what can we do to stay healthy on our vacations? 

Once upon a time, it seemed like I'd pick up an illness whenever I traveled. I usually got mild colds or flu, but about four years ago I got pneumonia after a stay at Disney (it was my fault -- I walked around the entire Coronado Springs Resort in the rain.) Since then, I've been a lot more careful about my health, both before I leave and during the trip. Here are my tips for staying healthy: 

BEFORE YOU GO:
- Get plenty of sleep, especially the night before you leave. This has made the biggest difference for me. 
- Eat and drink right in the weeks before your trip, and avoid alcohol in the days before. 
- Refill any prescription medications and carry them with you in the original marked container.
- Pack a first aid kit and any medications you might need as they may not be readily available once you're there.
- Don't forget those comfy, well-broken in shoes, comfortable clothing (including jackets and sweaters), and sun protection (SPF15+ sunscreen and hats). 
- If you'll be traveling from the West Coast or overseas, jet lag is a concern. Get plenty of rest before you leave, avoid alcohol and caffeine before and during your flight, and jump into your new time zone as soon as you arrive. 

WHILE YOU'RE THERE: 
- Drink lots of fluids ("a hydrated traveler is a healthy traveler"). If you're prone to diarrhea, drink bottled water.
- Take advantage of the hotel's fitness center, or just walk/jog around the property. 
- Try to eat at regular intervals -- skipped meals can lower your resistance to illness. If necessary, pack some healthy snacks for times when you can't eat and to avoid too much junk food. 
- Try to avoid crowds in enclosed buildings or vehicles, as close contact with others makes it more likely you'll pickup germs. 

If you do get ill while you're at Walt Disney World, Centra Care Walk-In Medical Care (407-239-6463) and Main Street Physicians Walk-In Center (407-396-1195) can help. Disney's theme parks all have First Aid Centers, too. You can have prescription medications delivered to your hotel by calling Turner Drugs (407-828-8125). 

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Reader Feedback:

"I enjoyed your tips for staying healthy while traveling, but you left out a very important piece..... handwashing! If you can't wash with soap and water use some antibacterial hand cleanser, and wash those hands often!!! I never go to WDW without some hand cleanser in my bag. Thanks, and I enjoy your newsletters and books!" -- contributed by Diane Bartscherer