Travel Like a Champion in China!
Don't get sidelined by a travel-related illness or injury when you cheer for Team USA at the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Follow these tips to stay safe and healthy while you are in China.
Traveling to China for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games? Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy.
Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy!
- Eat fully cooked food that is served hot or fruits and vegetables you can wash and peel yourself.
- Eat and drink only dairy products that have been pasteurized.
- Do not eat food from street vendors.
- Drink beverages that have been bottled and sealed (water, carbonated drinks, or sports drinks).
- Do not put ice in drinks.
- Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel before you eat or prepare a meal.
Breathe Easy!
- Talk with your doctor before you go to China if you have asthma or another lung problem.
- See a doctor right away if you have coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing while traveling.
- If possible, plan outdoor activities early in the day and avoid areas of heavy traffic.
Play It Safe!
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) with 30%-50% DEET.
- Drink plenty of water and eat regularly to avoid heat-related illness.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
- Do not touch animals, especially dogs and birds.
- Follow local laws and customs.
- Be careful in crowds and when crossing the street.
- Choose a place to meet if you get separated from your group.
For more tips, see CDC's Olympics and Paralympics travel health Web site. Check back for a special feature with top tips for kids.
Download a podcast to learn more about staying healthy while traveling to and around China:
- Attention Sports Fans: Go for the Gold in Travel Health! (
5:30 minutes) - Gold Medal Travel Health Tips (9:22 minutes)
If you missed our tips for preparing to travel to the Olympics and Paralympics, read Go for the Gold — in Travel Health!
Know someone else who is going to the Olympics? Send them an e-card and share what you've learned about good travel health!
For travel health information about other international destinations, see CDC.gov/Travel.
