Travel abroad

July, 2001. Travel abroad [online]. Seacroft and St James's University Hospitals, UK. Available from http://www.cysticfibrosismedicine.com. This section provides answers to some of the more frequently asked questions about travel and cystic fibrosis. Insurance: It is important to take out adequate travel insurance. This must include cover for cystic fibrosis. Medical treatment can be very expensive abroad as can repatriation. Information for customs: A letter from the local CF Unit is essential. It should detail the diagnosis, medication and equipment including syringes and needles. Informing the CF team: It is important to inform the CF team before booking a flights. They may request a formal flight test to assess if in-flight oxygen is required. This is to avoid potential hypoxaemia (low oxygen) when flying at high altitude. For more details visit the flight test section. Health: Travel abroad should only take place if health permits. The local CF team will be able to give advice. Vaccinations: Appropriate immunisations should be given.The use of live vaccines is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients (post transplant). This includes the oral polio, mumps, measles, rubella, BCG, smallpox and yellow fever vaccines. Always contact your transplant centre for advice. Malaria prophylaxis: Having cystic fibrosis is not a contraindication to malaria prophylaxis. Mefloquine should not be prescribed to patients with significant liver disease.Chloroquine should be prescribed with caution with hepatic impairment. Septrin and trimethoprim interact with Pyrimethamine. Post transplant patients should seek advise from their transplant centre.
Specific information on malaria prophylaxis and vaccination
	Department of Health (UK)	:
	The Travel Doctor
Salt depletion Because of the high sodium and chloride concentrations in sweat, activities which increase sweat production can lead to excess salt depletion. When going to hot climates it is important to take salt supplementation (salt tablets) with adequate fluids. This will avoid the potential complications of heat prostration.
Preparations	Sodium chloride tablets. Slow Sodium 600 mg NaCl (10mmol Na+) or sodium chloride capsules 1 g
Dose	In hot weather, fever or vigorous exercise.Under 1yr: 500mg/day; 1-7yr: 1g/day; over 7yrs: 2-4 g/day (Take in divided doses).
Notes	Slow Sodium cannot be crushed. Diorylate sachets can be used in young children or babies. Encourage fluid intake.
Pneumothorax: Having a pneumothorax is a contraindication to flight. Individuals who have recently been treated for a pneumothorax should avoid flying. Your specialist will be able to tell you when it will be safe to fly. Copyright © cysticfibrosismedicine