Summer holidays are nearly here, so while you’re dreaming of sun, sea and sand, don’t let health issues turn your dream trip abroad into a nightmare. Dr Manisha Kumar, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Greater Manchester, shares her essential summer holiday health tips to help ensure you’re in holiday heaven not holiday hell…
Health Tips Before You Travel
Pack Your Prescription Meds
Make sure you have enough prescription medication to last the entire holiday as well as some extras in case of delays, damage or loss – ordering them at least 7 days before you leave. Check with your pharmacist whether your medication contains a controlled drug – if it does, you will need to check the rules of the country you’re going to in case it is restricted. For full details visit the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Summer First Aid Kit
An absolute essential is a first aid kit containing the usual items found in a home medicine cabinet such as plasters, paracetamol, sun cream, antihistamines and mosquito repellent. This basic kit can save you from unnecessary trips to local healthcare and ensure you’re prepared.
Travel Insurance: Better To Be Safe Than Sorry
We all know that travelling anywhere these days can be really expensive, but don’t be tempted to scrimp on travel and medical insurance. It can end up costing thousands of pounds without it.
UK GHIC Card: Get FREE Cover
If you’re planning to travel outside of the UK, then it’s worth applying for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Replacing the existing European Health Insurance Card – the UK GHIC lets card holders get necessary state healthcare in Europe and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country. Lasting for up to five years, you can apply for the new card through the NHS website – but remember this doesn’t replace travel insurance!
Vaccinations
If you’re holidaying somewhere exotic then don’t forget to check ahead of your trip if you will need any vaccinations from your GP or private travel clinic to protect against diseases like typhoid and yellow fever. Remember, some vaccines need to be given well in advance and may require more than one dose! For more advice visit the NHS website.
Health Tips While You’re Away
Don’t Sizzle In The Sun
Avoid the dreaded sunburn or heatstroke by taking some easy precautions. Limit your time in the heat if you can, re-apply sun cream throughout the day especially if you’re going in and out of a pool or the sea, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear a hat and drink plenty of water. For more information visit NHS advice – How to cope in warm weather.
Prevent A Drinking Disaster
While it can be tempting to let loose, too much alcohol can lead to disaster – especially in the sun due to added dehydration. So, make sure you know your limits, have plenty to eat and alternate alcohol with water or even alcohol-free alternatives. Don’t forget that alcohol also dulls your instincts which can lead to unsafe decisions, so keep a close eye on yours and your friends’ and families’ drinks – not leaving them unattended at any point.
Water Safety
It’s easy to stay safe while having fun in the water. For example, swim with others in case anyone gets into trouble in the water, always choose beaches and pools that have lifeguards, read all signage, never use inflatables in open water, and make sure you know tide times if at the coast. For full water safety advice visit The Royal Life Saving Society website.
Prevent The Dreaded Stomach Bug
Help prevent any stomach disasters by only drinking bottled water as not all countries’ water is as safe as the UK’s. When dining, opt for freshly cooked, hot meals at the hotel and be cautious with food choices when eating out.
Avoid Wild Animals
As cute as they may seem, avoid touching wild or stray animals. They can carry serious diseases, and even a small bite or scratch could result in painful infections, costly medical treatment, or a trip to the hospital.
