Health Tips for your Holiday

A little forethought and planning before your holiday can make all the difference between an enjoyable, problem-free travel experience, or an unpleasant experience or at worst a disaster. Holiday Insurance Web has put together some travel health tips so you can plan ahead and have a great holiday.

Immunisations
Check that all your vaccinations are up-to-date and find out if you need any special immunisations for the country you're travelling to. See your doctor about 6-8 weeks before you are planning to go to allow enough time for any immunisations that may be required to be completed, so that they fully protect you. This is especially true if you are planning to travel to tropical areas or developing countries.

Malaria
If you are travelling to a country where malaria occurs, you will need to obtain a sufficient supply of anti-malarial medication to begin taking the drug for a full week before departure, for the whole duration of travel in the malarial area, and for 4 weeks after leaving the area.

Dentists
If you are worried about your teeth, or you plan to be away a long time, see your dentist. It may be difficult and expensive to get dental treatment while you are away.

Deep vein thrombosis
Reduce the risk of DVT during your journey. Move your feet, wriggle your toes or get up and walk around regularly if you can. Avoid dehydration – drink plenty of water. Wear flight socks.

Personal Medications
If you are currently taking any prescription medicine, ensure that you have a sufficient supply during your time away, especially if you're planning on being away from home for a long period of time. Essential medication should be divided and stored in separate bags in case one goes missing.

Sunburn
Sunburn is a painful skin condition caused by overexposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. It particularly affects fair hair and light skinned people but even dark and black skin can burn and should therefore be protected. Avoid sunbathing in the hottest part of the day, between 10.00 and 14.00 and wear a high factor sunscreen and a wide rimmed sunhat.

Water
Find out if the tap water is safe to drink. To be sure drink just bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

For useful advice on how to stay safe whilst on a backpacking holiday see our Backpacker Tips
For useful tips whilst on a skiing holiday see our Ski Tips