With Cheryl Cole taking ill recently with Malaria whilst in Tanzania, see what precautions you need to take in order to prevent illnesses whilst on holiday.
- See your doctor for vaccine advice
It is recommended that six months before you travel (especially to tropical countries) you contact your doctor to ask about what immunisations and vaccines you might need. They will tell you what exact precautions you will need to take.
- Read immunisation advice on holiday destination
it is important to read travel advice regarding food and water hygiene and guidelines for protection of infectious diseases that are spread via insects. For example, travelling to Africa you need to take anti malarial tablets.
If you are taking medication you must take this with you and let your doctor know before taking any immunisations.
Depending on where you plan to travel, some of the most common immunisations that you may receive before leaving the UK include rabies, malaria, diphtheria and typhoid. Travel anywhere in South America requires yellow fever.
- Take appropriate paperwork
At the airport you will more than likely be asked to show proof that you have the required immunisations in order for you to travel. Make sure you take valid documentation with you proving that you have had them and keep them in a safe place along with your passport.
- Immunisations for kids
Protect your kids from vaccine-preventable diseases before travelling abroad. Risk factors include close association with local children and crowding, especially ones where there are visitors from many different countries.
Many countries, including ones in Europe, do not vaccinate every child against the routine childhood immunisations we have in the United Kingdom. Carry your children’s vaccination record. In your hand luggage and a copy elsewhere.
This is a guideline for information please consult your GP.
