Whether you’re traveling to visit family in Mexico, exploring Europe, or heading out on a road trip across California, staying healthy while traveling is essential. For many residents of Los Angeles County—especially in a global hub like Long Beach—travel is part of life. But are you prepared for the health risks that can arise when you’re away from home?

At Aviva Pharmacy, we specialize in helping travelers like you stay protected with the right vaccines, medications, and health guidance before you leave. Whether you’re an international traveler, frequent flyer, or first-time explorer, here’s how you can safeguard your health on your next trip.

Why Travel Health Matters

Traveling exposes you to new environments, climates, and health risks. From food-borne illnesses to mosquito-borne diseases and respiratory infections, even seasoned travelers can find themselves dealing with unexpected health problems.

For LA County residents who frequently visit family abroad, go on missionary trips, or travel to high-risk regions, the right vaccinations and travel medications can make all the difference.

Common Health Risks Travelers Face:

• Traveler’s diarrhea (from contaminated food or water).

• Infectious diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, yellow fever, or malaria.

• Respiratory illnesses such as flu or COVID-19, especially when traveling through crowded airports or staying in shared accommodations.

• Jet lag and sleep disruption, which can weaken your immune system.

• Accidental injuries due to unfamiliar environments or activities.

Pre-Travel Checklist: What You Need Before Your Trip1. Travel Vaccinations

Depending on your destination, certain vaccines may be required or strongly recommended.

At Aviva Pharmacy, we offer a full range of travel vaccines, including:

• Hepatitis A: Recommended for most international travelers, especially to areas with poor sanitation.

• Typhoid: Essential if you’re traveling to parts of Africa, Asia, or Latin America.

• Yellow Fever: Required for travel to some regions in Africa and South America.

• Rabies: For travelers working closely with animals or heading to remote areas.

• COVID-19 & Influenza: Always recommended to reduce risk in crowded settings like airports, planes, or large gatherings.

Pro Tip: Many countries require proof of vaccination for entry or for activities such as safaris, cruises, or volunteer work.

2. Travel Medications

You may also need prescription or over-the-counter medications to prevent or treat travel-related illnesses. Our pharmacists can assist you with:

• Malaria prophylaxis: Depending on your destination, you may need antimalarial pills.

• Traveler’s diarrhea kits: Including antibiotics and oral rehydration salts.

• Motion sickness remedies: Patches or medications for long flights, boat trips, or winding roads.

3. First-Aid and OTC Supplies

Create a personalized travel health kit with essentials such as:

• Pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen).

• Antihistamines for allergic reactions.

• Anti-diarrheal medication.

• Insect repellent with DEET.

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.

4. Travel Documents

• Bring your vaccine records or Yellow Card (International Certificate of Vaccination) if needed.

• Make sure prescriptions are labeled and stored properly, especially for international flights.

Health Tips While TravelingStay Hydrated

Dehydration is common, especially on long flights. Drink bottled or filtered water when traveling in regions with questionable tap water.

Practice Good Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer. Many travel-related illnesses are spread via contaminated surfaces or food.

Be Careful with Food and Water

• Avoid raw or undercooked foods when traveling abroad.

• Stick to bottled or purified water in areas where water safety is uncertain.

Protect Against Mosquitoes

Wear long sleeves and pants, and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever, Zika, or malaria.

Why Choose Aviva Pharmacy for Travel Health?Local and Accessible

As a trusted Long Beach pharmacy, we serve the diverse needs of LA County travelers—from seniors heading on cruises to students studying abroad.

Culturally Aware

Many of our patients visit family or take mission trips to Latin America, Southeast Asia, or Africa. We understand these unique travel needs and can recommend destination-specific vaccines and medications.

Same-Day Services

• Walk-ins welcome for last-minute travelers.

• Same-day consultations for urgent travel needs.

• We’ll help you avoid the stress of searching for a last-minute travel clinic.

Affordable Options

Don’t let the fear of cost stop you from protecting your health abroad. We offer free and low-cost vaccines for eligible patients and can help you access manufacturer discounts or patient assistance programs for travel meds.

Expert Guidance

Our pharmacists will:

• Review your travel itinerary.

• Recommend vaccines and medications tailored to your destination.

• Provide health advice specific to your trip (e.g., how to manage jet lag, food safety tips for your destination, or guidance on altitude sickness).

The Bigger Picture: Why Travel Health Matters in 2025

Post-pandemic travel has surged, and so have health concerns related to outbreaks like dengue, COVID-19 variants, and antimicrobial-resistant infections in certain regions.

Los Angeles County, as a major international travel hub, sees thousands of residents leaving and returning from high-risk areas each month. Aviva Pharmacy’s role is to help reduce health risks both abroad and at home—protecting travelers and their communities.

Let Us Help You Travel Safely

Before you pack your bags, make sure your health is covered.

Visit Aviva Pharmacy to:

• Get your travel vaccines.

• Fill prescriptions for travel medications.

• Receive customized health advice for your trip.

Stop by our Long Beach location or contact us today to schedule your travel consultation. Safe and healthy travels start here!