Summer holidays are a chance to relax, explore and enjoy time away from home. However, different destinations can bring different health considerations, from recommended travel vaccinations and insect-borne infections to heat, food and water safety. Arranging advice early can help you prepare confidently and avoid last-minute stress.
Barnes Pharmacy’s Travel Clinic on Welwyn High Street provides personalised travel health advice and vaccination appointments for a range of holidays and destinations. The right preparation depends on where you are going, how long you will be away, what you will be doing and your own medical history.
Why arrange travel health advice early?
Some travel vaccinations are given as a course, while others need time to take effect before you travel. Depending on your destination and previous vaccination history, you may need one appointment or several. It is therefore sensible to seek advice several weeks before departure wherever possible.
Even if your holiday is approaching soon, it is still worth booking an appointment. A pharmacist can discuss the time available and help you prioritise the most relevant measures. Do not assume that a previous trip means you are still protected, as some vaccinations require boosters or have specific duration of protection.
When you book, be ready to provide details such as:
- Your destinations, including any stopovers or side trips
- Your departure date and length of stay
- Whether you will stay in hotels, visit rural areas, camp or travel independently
- Planned activities, such as trekking, cycling, diving or visiting animals
- Your vaccination history, if available
- Any medical conditions, allergies, regular medicines or previous reactions to vaccines
Which travel vaccinations might you need?
Travel vaccination recommendations vary considerably. Some travellers may need protection against illnesses such as hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio or hepatitis B, while other destinations may involve different considerations. The advice may also change according to the season, local outbreaks and the type of accommodation or activities planned.
Your routine UK vaccinations should be up to date before travelling. This can include checking protection against illnesses such as measles, mumps and rubella, as well as tetanus, diphtheria and polio. A travel consultation provides an opportunity to identify gaps in your vaccination history and discuss whether a booster or additional vaccine is appropriate.
Vaccinations are not the only part of travel preparation. For some destinations, malaria prevention may be recommended. This can involve prescription antimalarial tablets, insect bite prevention or both. Not every antimalarial medicine is suitable for every traveller, so the choice should take account of your destination, health, medicines and personal circumstances. Your pharmacist can advise whether you need to speak with another healthcare professional.
Protect yourself from insects and the summer heat
Mosquitoes and other insects can transmit infections in some parts of the world. Reduce bites by using an effective insect repellent, covering arms and legs where practical and sleeping behind screens or under an insecticide-treated net when appropriate. Air conditioning can also help in some accommodation, although it should not replace repellent and suitable clothing.
Hot weather creates additional risks, particularly for young children, older people and anyone with certain long-term health conditions. Drink regularly, limit alcohol during very hot periods and spend time in shade during the strongest sunshine. Use high-factor sunscreen, apply it generously and reapply as directed, especially after swimming or sweating. A hat, sunglasses and lightweight clothing can provide useful extra protection.
Take extra care with strenuous activities in hot conditions. Build up gradually, take breaks and seek urgent medical help if someone becomes confused, unusually drowsy, has difficulty breathing, collapses or cannot keep fluids down.
Food, water and stomach upsets
In some destinations, infections can spread through contaminated food or water. Wash your hands regularly, particularly before eating and after using the toilet. Choose food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot, and take care with raw salads, unpasteurised products and food that has been left at room temperature.
Where tap water is not considered safe, use sealed bottled water or water that has been treated appropriately. Remember that ice, drinks prepared with water and brushing your teeth can also be relevant. A travel health consultation can help you understand the precautions recommended for your destination.
It is sensible to pack a small health kit containing items such as plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, rehydration sachets and any regular medicines. Keep medicines in their original packaging and carry enough for the whole trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Some medicines have restrictions in other countries, so check requirements in advance and carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your prescriber if appropriate.
Travel health considerations for children and particular circumstances
Children may need specific advice about vaccinations, insect protection, sun exposure, food and drink. Babies and young children can become dehydrated or overheated more quickly, so plan regular drinks, shade and rest. Make sure any child travelling with you has appropriate routine vaccinations and that you understand how to use medicines safely.
People who are pregnant, trying to conceive, breastfeeding, immunocompromised or living with a long-term condition should seek individual advice before travelling. Some destinations, vaccines and medicines may not be suitable in every situation. If you have complex health needs, your pharmacist may recommend discussing your plans with your GP or specialist as well.
Check your travel insurance carefully. It should reflect your destination, planned activities and any existing medical conditions. Keep important contact details, insurance information and copies of essential documents accessible while travelling. If you are travelling with prescribed medicines, check the rules for the country you are visiting and any countries you pass through.
Prepare well for a healthier holiday
Travel health is about more than having a vaccination. It is a combination of destination-specific advice, routine immunisations, sensible precautions and preparation for your own circumstances. Arranging an appointment before the summer rush gives you time to complete any recommended vaccination course, obtain suitable medicines and ask questions about your itinerary.
Book your travel health consultation
For tailored advice before your next holiday, book a Travel Clinic appointment at Barnes Pharmacy in Welwyn High Street. Our team can discuss your destination, vaccination needs and practical health precautions so you can set off better prepared.