Travel Health
It’s all very well making sure you have your beach towel and sun tan lotion packed, but if you fail to get the right travel vaccinations for the country you are visiting your holiday could take a nasty turn. It’s a simple fact that some regions of the world require you to be vaccinated against a host of diseases common in that area. Follow these simple guidelines to keep well and healthy.
Firstly, it is wise to consult your GP prior to going on vacation so they can assess your specific health risks and recommend vaccinations and / or antimalarial tablets. Your GP can also offer invaluable advice on travel issues like mosquito bites and safe drinking water. Diseases like measles are common and widespread, so check with your GP that you have been immunised or immune from previously contracting the disease.
It‘s also imperative that you ensure you have complete insurance cover for any kind of medical emergency, which includes repatriation. If you are a UK citizen and are holidaying in an EU country carrying a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can entitle you to subsidised or free medical treatment.
Malaria is a very serious disease and can be fatal. Guarding against mosquito bites can protect you, but antimalarial tablets should be taken if you are visiting India, Africa, the Caribbean, Central and South America, the Middle East and Central and East Asia.
If you are visiting any of the above countries or regions, you should also ensure you are vaccinated against Rabies, Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Cholera, Diphtheria, Yellow Fever and Tuberculosis. Always ask your GP for advice regarding the prerequisite vaccinations for the country or region you are visiting.
During your pre-travel consultation with your GP ask if there are any current outbreaks of diseases or epidemics within the country or region you are visiting. For example, in 2011 there has been an outbreak of Pertussis (whooping cough) in Australia and visitors have been advised to have a booster jab against the disease.
Your GP is there to give advice and help you stay well and healthy while you enjoy your holiday. Arrange a pre-travel consultation and ensure you are fit for travel.
