The World Scout Jamboree is an amazing opportunity to meet other Scouts from all over the world, learn new skills, and have an adventure of a lifetime. However, it is important to take steps to protect your health before and during the event.
Here are some travel health precautions for Canadian Scouts going to Korea for the World Scout Jamboree 2023, 1-12 August 2023:
Make a travel health appointment to find out what travel vaccines you’ll need for the World Scout Jamboree
As you’ll be attending a mass gathering, the first step to protecting your health is to make sure you are up to date on all of your vaccinations. This includes routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), as well as vaccines for diseases that are common in the area where the jamboree is being held.
At Canadian Travel Clinics, we can help with catch-up shots for visiting Korea, and also vaccines for hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis and rabies if these are a risk.
If you’re planning to extend your trip to visit other places in Korea, let the travel health pharmacist know so they can include this in their risk assessment.
See your doctor about underlying health conditions
If you are living with a long-term condition such as asthma, see your doctor before you go to the jamboree. They can help you work out what meds to take with you, and provide letters and prescriptions in case you have to seek healthcare in Korea.
Avoid insect bites at the Scout Jamboree
By avoiding insect bites, you will minimize your risk of exposure to diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, scrub typhus and Lyme disease. These diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. We have a blogpost with advice for avoiding insect bites.
Drink plenty of water during the Scout Jamboree
The Republic of Korea has a warm climate, and you can expect temperatures of between 23C and 30C in August. It is important to stay hydrated, especially when you are in a hot climate and doing strenuous activity. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you are not thirsty, and even if you don’t want to stop having fun!
Think about food and drinking water safety
Follow the usual food and water hygiene advice for camping and for travelling. You may need to manage traveller’s diarrhea during the 2023 Scout Jamboree, so bring remedies with you and plan accordingly.
Wash your hands often during the jamboree
One of the best ways to prevent the spread of disease at the Scout Jamboree is to wash your hands often. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after being in contact with other people.
It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid getting sick. Avoid contact with people who are sick, and do not share food or drinks with other people.
Get travel insurance for the Scout Jamboree
Travel insurance can protect you in case of unexpected events, such as lost luggage, medical emergencies, or flight cancellations. Your normal health insurance will not pay for treatment while you’re abroad.
By following these travel health precautions, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and healthy experience at the World Scout Jamboree 2023.