HELPFUL HINTS AND TIPS TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY AND SAFE WHEN YOU TRAVEL ABROAD.

FOOD AND WATER HYGIENE

• If you can’t wash it or peel it don’t eat it.
• Stick to hot freshly cooked foods.
• Avoid salads and uncooked foods especially shellfish and avoid foods made with unpasteurised milk.
• Drink only bottled water – use for brushing teeth.
• Avoid ice cubes.
• Water filter/purification tablets.
• Dehydration sachets.

SUN PROTECTION

• Always use factor 15 plus – apply 15-30 minutes prior to going out into the sun first thing in the day.
• Re-apply frequently.
• Cover up if out in the midday sun.
• Wear a hat.
• Keep fluid intake up.

SAFE SEX

• No unprotected sex.
• Take condoms – British Kite Mark.
• Keep condoms out of the heat.
• Remember risk of hepatitis B and HIV.

 FLIGHT SAFETY

• Drink plenty of fluids – flat better than fizzy.
• Not too much alcohol.
• In flight socks.
• Deep breathing and leg exercises.
• Aspirin before long haul flights if not contraindicated.

MEDICATION

• Take plenty of routine medication.
• Always carry in hand luggage.
• Remember the contraceptive pill may be affected by severe vomiting, diarrhoea and antibiotics.

DENTAL CARE

• Have check up – particularly for those going on extended trips.

FIRST AID – MEDICAL KITS

• Take basic first aid kit plus medical pack with needles etc.
• Always carry with you.  DO NOT LEAVE IN ACCOMMODATION.

SAFETY

• Do not overdo alcohol.
• Be sensible.
• Do not leave drinks unattended.
• Accidents, injuries and motor vehicles – standard may vary.
• Avoid tattoos and body piercings.
• Do not accept any packages.

DOCUMENTATION

• Ensure all vaccination Certificates have been completed.
• Insurance – check exclusions eg, pre-existing conditions and dangerous activities.
• Take photocopies of documentation ie, passport, E111 and give to travelling companions or post details on personal e-mail account.
• Give all travellers a copy of government leaflet – Health Advice for Travellers.

MALARIA

• Several drugs of choice.  Advice according to separate protocols.
• Give patient information leaflets at first visit.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET.  Knock down sprays, mosquito coils and plug ins.
• Cover up from dusk to dawn.
• Nothing is 100% effective against malaria therefore always be aware of risk and symptoms of malaria