Germ & Worm

Germ & Worm

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Internationally-renowned travel health experts, Drs. Paul Pottinger and Chris Sanford, answer your most pressing (and most embarrassing) questions on maintaining good health during your global travels.

Drs. Paul Pottinger and Chris Sanford


    • Apr 29, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 32m AVG DURATION
    • 46 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Germ & Worm

    46: Toilet seats, THC, and Cuy… Oh My!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 29:12


    Zdravo! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What infections can I catch from a toilet seat?Any advice for a traveler who likes their comforts and conveniences?How safe is that welcome fruit basket in the hotel?Any safety issues with getting a haircut and shave on the road?How worried should I be about germs emerging from thawed permafrost?How can I keep my nasal saline irrigation safe during travel?I plan to eat cuy in Peru... is this safe?Any issues with traveling with my medical marijuana?Will airport x-ray machines ruin condoms in my luggage?How safe are busses in Mexico?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    45: Vitamin A--Too Much of a Good Thing?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 35:33


    Maingalarpar! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Do I need anything beyond meningococcal vaccination before the Hajj?How can I prepare better for the chaos of TSA rules at the airport?Should I get a Tdap before visiting Peru?Is my phone subject to search when I cross the border?Is the USA the only high-income nation with measles transmission now?Are there harms from taking TOO MUCH vitamin A?What do you think of the resignation of FDA's top vaccine official?What should I do if I lose my glasses while I'm overseas?Should I stock up on antibiotics when I'm at a pharmacy overseas?Is it safe to rent a car internationally?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    44: Vaccine Record Chaos? There's an app for that

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 32:36


    Sin Chao! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Just how unsafe is it to drive when I travel?Norovirus: How long does it last in the environment, and when will we have a vaccine?How can I become a more ethical traveler?Friendly reminder to check with your veterinarian before international travel with pets.What should I pack in my take-on bag vs checked bag?How should I best keep track of my vaccine records?How can I handle the chaos of travel schedules overseas?What's up with the Ixchiq chikungunya vaccine?Will my cat get sick with bird flu from raw food?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    43: Cod liver oil to prevent measles? Oh hell no!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 30:46


    Aloha! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Do I need to take malaria pills to visit an eco-lodge in Guyana?What's the cause of all these little red bumps in a family after travel to Costa Rica?Should I get a yellow fever vaccine booster 15 years after my first shot?Are there issues seeing a private ARNP for pre-travel advice?Any tips for general travel success?What's the deal with plans for flu vaccines for next year?What can I do to calm my nerves when I can't smoke or vape in the air?Will vitamin A really prevent measles?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    42: TB or Not TB? That is the Question! (With Dr. Adrienne Shapiro)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 39:10


    Pryvit! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") devote an entire episode to the most common deadly infection on Earth: tuberculosis. They answer your travel health questions about TB, and host a very special guest: Adrienne Shapiro MD, PhD, who provides an update on the critical situation with current US federal policy on TB. Topics we will discuss:What is TB?Are there different kinds of tuberculosis?How common is TB?Is there a TB vaccine? If so, should I get one before I travel overseas?How is TB diagnosed?What is the best way to treat TB?What's the impact of US federal policy on TB prevention, care, and research?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Shapiro's, Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    41: Women's Travel Health Questions with Dr. Karen Tang

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 35:31


    Hi there! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") are so excited to host Dr. Karen Tang, an expert gynecologist, to answer your travel health questions from our women listeners:Is it OK for me to skip my period for an upcoming holiday?How should I handle timing of my oral contraceptive pills across time zones?Are there certain forms of birth control well-suited for long trips abroad?What can I do to reduce the risk of a UTI or yeast infection?Will antibiotics or antimalarials interfere with my oral contraceptives?Will my estrogen HRT patch get messed up by snorkeling?Should I bring my own condoms for my next overseas trip?Will my doctor prescribe medical abortion pills before my upcoming long trip abroad.What are the chances I can find my preferred hygiene products during vacation in Morocco? Special shout out to Dr. Tang's followers: We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Please follow Dr. Tang on the socials: @karentangmd, check out her book It's Not Hysteria, and learn more about her practice www.thrivegyn.com. Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Tang's, Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    40: Lordy Lordy It's Episode Forty!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 32:15


    Gutentag! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What should I know about cholera before I travel?What are the implications of CDC no longer meeting to discuss vaccines?What essentials should I pack for a day hike?What are the ABCs of hepatitis A, B, and C?Should I visit as many countries as I can?Any special health concerns for a trip to Rio for Carnival?Is this really a bad year for flu, and is it too late for me to get immunized?Any safety tips for safety when road cycling in Europe?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    39: Oooooo Capybara!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 33:11


    Gutentag! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How can I boost my immune system?What is a "neglected tropical disease?"Is leprosy a concern for travelers?What is up with measles (including in Texas?)Do you ever recommend canceling a trip?Any health concerns with capybaras?Is whitewater rafting dangerous?Leaches... How do I avoid them and remove them?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    38: Who's the WHO and what do they do for YOU?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 32:22


    Salaam! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's the WHO and what do they do?Did azithromycin just give me "sun hives"?Is Chris a mountaineer, too?Is it safe to visit Kansas City in light of the TB epidemic there?How can I reduce the chance of being robbed or mugged?What do you think of the TimeShifter jet lag app?When can I donate blood after contracting typhoid?What should I do if I step on a weaverfish?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    37: Bedbugs, Bovine Colostrum, Ice Cream, and Fugu!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 32:55


    Konnichiwa! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Will bovine colostrum prevent traveler's diarrhea?How do I know if my hotel has bedbugs?Is flu season the same around the world?Why is wool "smarter" than cotton?Should I avoid eating pufferfish in Japan?Should I change my plans to visit Uganda in light of the Ebola outbreak?Should I be immunized against meningitis before travel to Africa?Is it safe to eat ice cream when I travel?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    36: Squat Toilets, Vaccines, Marburg Virus, and Wildfires

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 31:47


    Ola! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How many shots are too many at once for a baby?Is it OK to eat street food in Morocco?There's Marburg Virus in Tanzania, should that impact my plans for safari?What can I do to reduce motion sickness from airplane turbulence?What's the difference between a live and a dead vaccine?What's the difference between a bacteria, a virus, and a protozoa?I want to visit Disney Land, but is that OK with the wildfires?I'm worried about using a squat-style toilet in India, am I crazy?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    35: Germ, Worm, and Screwworms!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 31:47


    Bonjour! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How do I pack clothing for warm & cold climates into my carry on bag?Should I get vaccinated for Hepatitis A before a trip to France?What's the deal with screwworm and pets in Mexico?What is tetanus, and have you ever seen a case of it?How can I safely prepare my salad before eating it overseas?Can I obtain my same OCP when traveling abroad?Should I get immunized against rabies before I travel, or afterwards just if I need to?What concentration of DEET is best, and what do you recommend?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    34: DENGUE all day long

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 32:07


    Nihao! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions about Dengue Fever, including:What IS Dengue "break-bone" fever?Where can you catch Dengue?Is Dengue becoming more common? If so, why?Are there multiple types of Dengue?What are the complications of Dengue?How should Dengue be treated?Is there a vaccine to prevent Dengue?Is there a role for mosquito avoidance in preventing Dengue?What does the future hold for Dengue?We also chat about the impressive vaccine advocacy work of the GAVI Alliance, please check them out: www.gavi.org. We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    33: Caffeine, Mulberries, Norovirus, Typhoid, Aspirin, and Flu!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 31:23


    Jambo! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How can I deal with caffeine withdrawals while traveling?Should I travel to Shanghai in light of all the HMPV there?Will elderberry extract protect me from catching a cold, or help with my symptoms?Can a baby aspirin prevent blood clots during a long plane ride?CDC tells doctors now to subtype influenza... why don't you always do that?How did I catch typhoid fever if I was properly immunized before my trip to northern Chile?Are all bug repellants the same, or do I need different kinds for different locations?I wanna get trashed on my upcoming cruise, but not by norovirus... can you help?We also chat about the incredible land-rights advocacy work of friends at Landesa, please check them out: www.landesa.org. We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    32: Will murder hornets murder you? Does vitamin C prevent head colds? Is dengue spreading—and what to do about it? What is brucellosis? Is it politically incorrect to call someone a "sherpa?"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 27:52


    Welcome to 2025 everyone! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Will I get murdered by hornets in Laos?Do I need to take malaria prevention in Kruger and Etosha?Please tell people about brucellosis!I take acetaminophen to help with traveler's diarrhea... is that OK?What do G+W think about vitamin C to help with the common cold?Is dengue fever really getting worse?How to I navigate insurance if I get sick while abroad?Is it politically incorrect to call someone a "sherpa?"We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    31: Trekking poles: help or hindrance? What's the differences between vaccines that are routine, recommended and required? What can the US embassy do for me when I'm abroad? What is pertussis, and how can I avoid it? African Sleeping Sickness--what's

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 34:27


    Welcome to 2025 everyone! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's the differences between vaccines that are routine, recommended and required?What is Pertussis, and how can I avoid it?What can the US embassy do for me when I'm abroad?African Sleeping Sickness… what's the dealTrekking Poles: Help or Hindrance?Isn't it just safer to stay home?Wha't the best layover duration from an anxiety perspective?What's mycoplasma pneumonia?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    30: Should we take our kids on a trip to Peru? Is mumps still a thing? Is it dangerous to fly with high blood pressure? What should we know about the new mystery illness in Democratic Republic of Congo?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 31:27


    Welcome to 2025 everyone! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Should we take our kids on a trip to Peru?Should I fly on airlines overseas if they have poor safety records?Is mumps still a thing?Is it dangerous to fly with high blood pressure?A friend of mine had a tendon rupture while taking antibiotics, what's the deal with that?What should we know about the mystery illness in DRC?Any safety tips for walking the Camino de Santiago?How high did Germ get on Mt. Everest?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    29: How to avoid Vaginal Yeast Infections, “Florence Syndrome”, Cycling Safety in Europe, and Risks of Falling Polio Vaccine Rates

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2024 28:32


    Hi there and Happy New Year! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's the deal with falling polio vaccination rates?How can I avoid getting a yeast infection when I travel?Do I need a smallpox immunization before I travel?What's the most important safety feature: Where I go, or what I do when I'm there?What is "Florence Syndrome?"Any tips for cycling safely while traveling in Europe?How soon can I fly after scuba diving?Anything I can do to reduce my risk of blood clots when I fly?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    28: What to tell a speeding taxi driver, hand warmers and frostbite, medications on the go, and Measles in India

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 33:12


    Welcome everyone! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Do I need a measles vaccine before travel to India and Sri Lanka?Is it a problem if I keep my prescription medications in a plastic bag when I travel?Will electronic hand warmers protect me from frostbite?When my taxi driver likes to speed, how can I get them to slow down?Could my diarrhea be caused by baby carrots?Any tips for motorcycle safety in Europe?Why do my coral cuts from Curaçao get infected so much?Did those olives in Morocco make me queasy? We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    27: Cuddling with a sloth— a good idea?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 31:54


    Hi there! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Cryptosporidium and splash pads: What's the deal?What's the risk of catching bird flu from raw milk?Any tips for success when visiting Viet Nam?What typhoid vaccine is best before visiting South America: injectable or oral?How can I feel better after a long airplane ride?What insect repellent is best for kids?Should I avoid cuddling with koalas and other furry beasts when traveling?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    26: Petting Cats in Greece, A Passage to India: Malaria or Not Malaria? I'm pregnant—should I go on safari? I've got a UTI overseas…what to do?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 31:26


    Yeee Haw! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Should I take malaria prophylaxis on a trip to India?I like to pet cats in Greece! Is that a problem?Any special considerations for older travelers?I'm pregnant and planning a safari--should I go?I tend to get UTIs... how should I handle that during travel?What kind of travelers do you see in your practice?How can I keep my HIV treatment private at immigration when visiting Japan?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    25: Anthrax, Diving Boards, Tickborne Encephalitis, Where Do Germ and Worm Like to Travel?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 29:55


    Heyyyyy there! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's happening with Anthrax in Uganda?What to do when different medical societies say different things?Are culinary tours risky?How should hikers in Germany deal with tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease?Can I trust the diving board at a hotel swimming pool?What is the deal with Bird Flu in Washington State?Where do Germ & Worm like to travel?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    24: Marburg in Rwanda, Outbreaks Following Disasters, Japanese Encephalitis in India

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 34:44


    Hi there! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's happening with Marburg disease in Rwanda?Are rabies vaccinations important?What gift(s) should I bring when visiting a new country?Japanese encephalitis vaccination: Necessary if visiting Sri Lanka, Turkey, and India?What's the deal with West Nile Virus infection?What infectious diseases are likely to spread after a disaster?What's the deal with Novavax halting its clinical trial of the combined COVID / Flu vaccine?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    23: Sleeping high, Diving deep, Worrying Less

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 33:29


    Welcome! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's happening with mpox in Africa?How can I tell what food made me sick?What can I do to sleep better at high altitude?What's up with the epidemic of kidney disease in Sri Lanka?I get motion sick when whale watching--help!Is it safe to get certified as as SCUBA diver at a hotel?What about SCUBA diving generally--is it safe?What do Germ & Worm worry about when you travel?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    22: Pour Some Honey on Me!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 30:56


    Welcome! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Should I apply honey to help heal a wound?What's the best way to protect my passport?How should I handle a cat bite on Santorini?Why do only some people get sick after eating the same contaminated meal?Are all vaccines equally effective?When should I see a doctor if I catch traveler's diarrhea?How can I tell if that swimming pool is safe?Do I need proof of COVID-19 vaccination to travel in China?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    21: TICK TALK! All About Ticks: Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and More

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 38:31


    Welcome! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions about TICKS:How to diagnose Lyme disease?Should I take antibiotics if I find a tick on my body?How should I treat Lyme disease?What's up with chronic Lyme?Tell me more about Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever...Can I get the tickborne encephalitis vaccine?Is babesia really the same as malaria?How should I remove a tick from my skin?What's the best way to prevent tick bites?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    20: Worm Tales Winner!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 31:07


    Welcome! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Does the coca leaf help prevent altitude sickness?Is it safe to travel to East Africa for safari after having a kidney transplant?Can humanity continue current air travel practices and avoid another viral pandemic?Do Germ and Worm actually follow their own travel health advice?Will garlic repel mosquitoes?What's this rash I caught in Africa?What about ibuprofen: Can I use it instead of acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness?AND, we will reveal the winner of 2024's Worm Tales competition: Share with us the "dumbest" thing you have done while traveling abroad!We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    19: Traveling Around the World, Lenacapavir, Oral Typhoid Vaccine, What to Read

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 32:12


    Welcome! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Should I get a health screening after an international trip?Should I get the chikungunya vaccine before visiting Zanzibar?How should anxious travelers handle their anxiety?What's the deal with lenacapavir to prevent HIV infection?How do you advise people who plan to travel around the world?Are there any issues with taking the oral typhoid vaccine?What do you read when you travel abroad?How reliable is AI for travel medicine?>> Friendly reminder about the WORM TALES competition: Please tell us the dumbest thing you have done while traveling abroad, and you will have the chance to receive an autographed copy of Chris Sanford's book Staying Healthy Abroad.

    18: Giardia and the 'Rooster Tail' Sign!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 30:42


    Hi, travel health listeners! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:What's up with Giardia?When do I NOT have to wear bug repellent?Which is better for purifying water: Iodine or Bleach?Should I take a medication holiday during my upcoming vacation?How much water should I drink?What do you say to people who decline their vaccines?Do those electronic bug-bite wands really work?>> Friendly reminder about the WORM TALES competition: Please tell us the dumbest thing you have done while traveling abroad, and you will have the chance to receive an autographed copy of Chris Sanford's book Staying Healthy Abroad.

    17: Pre-Travel Checklist, DOXY-PEP, The Immunosuppressed Traveler

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 34:00


    Hi, travel health listeners! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How do I make a healthcare checklist prior to departure? Can I reduce my risk of STDs by taking doxycycline? Is it safe to travel in Cuba by car given that most don't have seat belts? What is the future of COVID-19 immunizations— a once-a-year vaccine or what? Is it safe to travel if I'm immunosuppressed, or taking immunosuppressive medications? What is delusional parasitosis? Should you carry COVID-19 test kits when you travel? If a hotel in Egypt says their water is filtered and safe—how can I tell if that's true?>> Friendly reminder about the WORM TALES competition: Please tell us the dumbest thing you have done while traveling abroad, and you will have the chance to receive an autographed copy of Chris Sanford's book Staying Healthy Abroad. Please just email us: germandworm@gmail.com.

    16: Ceviche, Deworming, Vaccines for Germany, and Leftover Medications

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 32:58


    Hi, travel health listeners! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Should I give leftover medications away to locals at the end of my trip? Is it safe to eat ceviche? Do I need vaccines to visit Germany? Should I take a deworming medication after visiting Latin America? In Laos, is it safer to travel by public bus or private car? How can I reduce the risk of Lyme disease? We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    15: Tattoos, Tdap, and Tooting!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 30:16


    Hi, travel health listeners! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:When should I get a tetanus booster?Why do I toot when I fly? Why does flu usually come from Southeast Asia each winter? Wassup with Alaskapox?Why are viruses named for the place where they are discovered?Can I safely get a tattoo in Thailand?Tips for traveling with young kids?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    14: UV-sterilizers, Home-brewed hooch, Swimming in polluted rivers

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 30:27


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions, all about MALARIA:When can I donate blood after visiting a region with malaria? Is it safe to swim in polluted rivers while overseas? If my work says I need to travel abroad while pregnant, do I have to? How well do those UV water purifier thingies work?Are there any precautions that someone who's had a heart attack should take prior to--and during--an international trip?How safe are home-brewed alcoholic beverages?Given dengue fever, is it safe to travel to Cancun and Mexico City while pregnant?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    13: MAY-laria (In September!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 33:14


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions, all about MALARIA:Are mosquitoes attracted to certain colors?Will DEET dissolve nylon climbing rope?Can you use medications past their use-by date?Is there a vaccine for malaria? What do I do if I need to change from one malaria medication to another? Can an artificially-produced monoclonal antibody prevent malaria? What's the deal with vivax malaria? Can I test myself for malaria?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    12: Worms in Your Eyes, Travel to USVI, Measles Prevention, Volunteering in Kenya

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 33:04


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Are there worms in Africa that can infect your eyes?Measles—risk in Zambia and Botswana?What do people who live in areas with a lot of mosquitoes do to prevent bites?Does licking yourself prevent mosquito bites?Do I need to be concerned about drug cartel violence when I travel to Mexico?Are there any health concerns regarding visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)?Which immunizations are recommended for a medical volunteer in Kenya?What strategies prevent sinus infections when I travel?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    11: Is Tasing Your Snakebite a Good Idea? And Should You 'BYOC'?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 32:55


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Is there a vaccine for hepatitis C?How is Guinea worm transmitted, and how do I avoid it?Should I treat my snakebite by zapping it with a Taser?Is a virus alive, and how does it mutate?Is it legal to take condoms through customs?Can someone pass an earthworm in their poop?What online resources are reliable regarding travel health?Should I get the new RSV vaccine?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    10: Hep B, Liver Flukes, Monkey Bites, and Staying Mobile

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 31:11


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Watercress—safe to eat?Should I be immunized for hepatitis B?How do vaccines work?Any tips for traveling with mobility issues?What are the issues with monkey bites in Thailand?Is it safe to eat fruits and vegetables while abroad?How do I prevent ear pain during jet travel?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    9: Hep A, Urchins, Japan, and Spam!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 30:38


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Do I need to be immunized for hepatitis A?What's the difference between bacterial and viral meningitis?When is using a personal flotation device a good idea?When should I avoid canned food?Do I need to see a travel doc before going to a high-income nation such as Japan? How do I prevent and treat injuries from coral and sea urchin spines?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    8: Pain in the Butt... Pain in the Head

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 34:14


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How do I prevent constipation when I travel?What's the best way to prevent altitude illness?How do I prevent malaria in my child?What are the best malaria medications for adults?How do I avoid the ill effects of air pollution?Is grapefruit seed extract helpful in preventing traveler's diarrhea?How do I prevent ear pain when I scuba?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    7: Cenotes, Ayahuasca, Botflies, & Beyond

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 34:26


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Do I need to be concerned about bats and/or bat guano when I go into a cave?How should I treat sunburn?What's the deal with bot flies? How do prevent jet lag?Do I need to report my positive Covid-19 test to authorities?Should I go on an Ayahuasca retreat? Is it safe to swim in a cenote in Mexico?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    6: Medical Tourism, Prohibited Medications, & More

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 30:22


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions: Should I pack an antibiotic when I travel?Is Dengue Fever a concern in Brazil?Can I boost my immune system prior to travel?Medical procedures abroad—any issues?Are potholes in streets a sign that I'm not a tourist?Do I need a letter from my doctor to travel with medications?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    5: How Many Shots Are Too Many?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 30:18


    Recorded February 2024Welcome to our travel health podcast! Today, you will meet travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm"). Today, we'll answer your travel health questions:Do multiple immunizations overwhelm my immune system?Road traffic injuries—do I need to be concerned? What's the deal with hot tubs and rashes?Accepting or refusing food offered by locals—what to do?Lyme disease: how to reduce risk?How do I prevent and treat motion sickness?Does health insurance cover vaccines?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    4: Japanese Encephalitis, Cold Prevention, Jet Lag

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 32:26


    Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:How do I find a trusted pharmacy while abroad?When is it safe to travel with a newborn?Travel to India—is malaria and/or Japanese encephalitis a concern?Should I travel with azithromycin (Z-pack)?Is a drug for malaria needed if exposure is airport-only?Tips for getting over jet lag?When do you need to see a doctor for traveler's diarrhea?How do I find a good doctor while abroad?Should I buy my malaria medication while overseas?Over-the-counter medications to prevent head colds—do they work?Does the Covid-19 vaccine mess with my DNA?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    3: Malaria, Machu Picchu, and More

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 33:01


    Germ & Worm co-hosts, Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm"), answer your travel health questions:What should I do if I get appendicitis while abroad? Travel with teens—any tips?Should I take acetazolamide (Diamox) when I climb Machu Picchu? Malaria prevention regimens—which is best? Do I need to take a drug to prevent malaria prophylaxis during a short-duration trip?Do I need to deworm after travel? How do I prevent respiratory illnesses during travel in China?What vaccines do I need prior to traveling to Thailand? I sprained my ankle sprain in Mexico—what to do?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    2: Dengue, Rabies, and Tetanus... Oh My!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 31:11


    Germ & Worm co-hosts, Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer your travel health questions:Is there a vaccine for dengue fever? Does my health insurance cover me while I'm abroad?What's the best medication for malaria prophylaxis?When is best to see a medical provider before a planned trip?Do I need vaccination for rabies? Is it safe to eat at roadside stands? Do I need to be immunized for tetanus?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

    1: Meet Germ & Worm!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 32:15


    Welcome to Germ & Worm! Today, you will meet your hosts, travel medicine specialists, Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") & Chris Sanford ("Worm"), and get the answers to your travel health questions:Is it safe to eat Kitfo (raw beef) in Ethiopia? Does my diet make mosquitoes more or less attracted to me?How do I ensure the water I drink is safe? What should I pack in my travel medical kit? Lakes and schistosomiasis—safe to swim or not? When should I seek treatment for traveler's diarrhea?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com.Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

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