Travellers

News

23 October 2012                 

Half-term holiday advice: October 2012

With half-term starting in many parts of the UK, here is a quick reminder about some current health issues:

Healthcare and insurance

You need comprehensive health insurance, as most countries do not have free healthcare. Apply for a European Health Insurance Card if you are visiting European Union countries - but remember this only covers you for emergencies, you still need separate travel health insurance.

Safety

Road safety rules can be more relaxed in some regions, so take extra care as a pedestrian and when driving.

Do not swim alone, after dark, after drinking alcohol or taking drugs and always supervise children in or near water. Check local advice on tides and safe places to swim.

Always check the water depth before diving and never dive into a swimming pool from a balcony - this is very dangerous.

Remember to take care with your personal safety - check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s country advice for information about local safety issues and customs at your destination.

Food and water hygiene

Illnesses spread by food and water, including hepatitis A, are more common in some countries.

Check NaTHNaC’s country information pages to see which vaccines are recommended. Follow good food and water hygiene advice as some illnesses such as travellers’ diarrhoea cannot be prevented by vaccines.

Insect spread illness

West Nile virus is reported every year in Europe and the USA - there has been an increase in the number of cases this year; West Nile virus: advice for travellers to USA, Europe and neighbouring countries.

Southern European countries such as Greece and Madeira are also reporting unusual outbreaks of other insect spread diseases, including cases of malaria in Greece and dengue in Madeira.

Before you travel check NaTHNaC’s country information pages for current advice about your destination (including malaria prevention) and follow insect bite avoidance advice.

On your return, see a doctor immediately if you have a fever or experience any unusual symptoms.

Links