Travelling abroad is so common these days that it is often easy to forget the necessary precautions.
Please ask at reception for a Travel Advice Questionnaire. This should be completed – where possible – at least three months before departure. The completed questionnaire should be handed to reception staff. The Nurse will contact you to provide an update on any vaccinations and medicines that you may need.
Make sure that you have adequate health insurance. If you are visiting an EEC country you will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Application forms are available at Post Offices or apply by telephone to the NHSBSA EHIC Line on 0845 606 2030 or you can complete your application ‘on-line’ at http://www.ehic.org.uk/
Take a small first-aid kit with you and beware of bites from insects and animals as many diseases are insect-borne and rabies is widespread. Be careful with raw vegetables, salads, fruit, shellfish and ice-cubes.
Respect the power of the sun! Use suncream regularly (at least Factor 25 for children) and wear a hat.
Sexually transmitted diseases (including AIDS) are a major health threat throughout the world. Condoms offer some protection.
If your doctor advises you to take anti-malarial tablets remember that you need to start taking them one or two weeks before departure and continue until four weeks after your return. These tablets are available from a Pharmacy and are essential if you are travelling to areas where malaria is present. Please note that any medications prescribed for holiday use are only available on private prescription.
There is further information about countries and vaccinations required on the links below:
