You have that Naija jersey locked down and your anticipation is high! Yay, it’s the World Cup! This is a lot of excitement and for a while we forget our troubles and differences, football brings everyone together like only few things can.
The World Cup 2018 holds from June 14 through July 15 in Russia and there is sure to be plenty of opportunities for eye-opening experiences, new friends and amazing football. Especially those of you lucky to actually go to Russia. We are jealous, but only a little. People need us here. 🙁
However, there will also be just as many opportunities to come down with an illness or run into a bit of trouble so here are some tips to help you as you prepare for your trip:
- Pack basic medications and first aid items: some paracetamol or aspirin, any prescribed medicines you take regularly, something for allergies, motion sickness, antacid medications for heartburn, indigestion or diarrhoea
- See your doctor or a travel health specialist about any health concerns you think may arise while you’re abroad.
- Make sure you have received all CDC recommended vaccinations i.e. Hepatitis A & B, measles, mumps, typhoid vaccine and updates on your routine vaccinations.
- Stay away from dogs, cats and bats. Rabies is a risk in Russia so avoid getting bitten or scratched.
- Practice basic sanitary practices – always wash your hands, never touch your face and always carry a bottle of sanitizer.
- Only drink bottled water and stay away from the tap, Russia’s water safety may vary depending on location.
- Be sure to bring good, comfortable shoes to help when walking is the best option to get around and pre-plan your routes to destinations using services like Google maps.
- Public transport is free for spectators with a Fan ID so take advantage of it so you don’t get lost & find yourself in unsavoury places where you could get hurt
For the rest of us who will be cheering the Super Eagles on from home, we have some tips to help too!
- When you’re watching Nigeria play, please be mindful of your blood pressure. The excitement, frustration and ecstasy will come in waves so try to stay calm
- If things don’t go our way and we do not win the World Cup as expected, please don’t throw things at people. Okay? Thanks.
- Football is a team sport and is best enjoyed in communal settings but please employ best hygiene practices in crowded viewing centres. Wash your hands, cover your nose & mouth when you sneeze etc.
- Keep healthy snacks and drinks on hand so you don’t binge on unhealthy food while watching the matches.
Above all else, enjoy the World Cup, have loads of fun and go wild for your team.
If you found this useful, please share with your friends and family. Thank you!
