UKHSA issues health warning to anyone with holidays booked in July
Summer is at its peak. But it's not just about securing your spot on a Parisian getaway, mapping out an Italian odyssey, or lazing under the Thai sun for a fortnight.
It's also a really sensible idea to know the ins and outs of staying well while indulging your wanderlust. With July marking the zenith of the British travel season, a wave of holidaymakers is poised to set sail for foreign shores in pursuit of exotic thrills and idyllic strands.
But charting unknown regions is not without its risks, prompting the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to provide vital advice for those plotting overseas jaunts this month. In a recent online briefing, Anjali Pai, the Border Health Lead at the UKHSA, highlighted the significance of being well-prepared before taking off.
She said: "Before we go on holiday, there are some things we can all do to reduce the risk of us becoming unwell. First of all, you can check the Travel Health Pro Website which has got really good information on travelling and things to do before we travel."
Furthermore, she advised keeping abreast with the latest foreign travel guidance by consulting official government information. She pointed out that health risks and recommendations may shift – making it wise to stay updated even when returning to familiar stomping grounds, as noted by Surrey Live.
Immunisations and hand washing
Anjali urged holidaymakers to consult their GPs about necessary immunisations, highlighting: "There are also some travel vaccines that are really crucial if you're travelling to certain countries. Things like hepatitis A and typhoid can be easily prevented by a vaccine."
The sheer disappointment of falling ill during a lavish overseas hotel break due to an ailment contracted on the flight can ruin your trip. The UKHSA official suggests several steps to sidestep such mishaps.
Hand cleanliness is important, of course. Advice includes a thorough 30-second scrub with warm water and soap, especially before eating as well as after visits to the loo.
Also, keeping tissues at hand for sneezes or coughs is encouraged. For those planning a trip to tropical climes or places plagued by mosquitos, using repellents, donning long sleeves, and sleeping under mosquito nets are recommended strategies.
Anjali also added: "Safe sexual health is something we should all be practising when we are abroad by using condoms." Meanwhile, post-holiday sickness can often stem from bugs caught whilst away.
Thus, any returning Brits showing signs of illness, particularly if others in the group mirror these symptoms, should promptly consult their doctor.
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