Pharmacist issues vaccine warning to Brits heading on holiday this year
Holidaymakers jetting off to tropical climates could be exposed to diseases their immune systems aren't used to.
Though there aren't mandatory vaccines for some countries, Brits are advised to check any requirements before travelling.
Boots pharmacist Claire Nevinson explained the urgency of travellers protecting their health when going abroad.
'It's important to take steps to protect our health when we travel abroad so we can focus on enjoying our holiday,' she said.
'Travel vaccinations may be recommended depending on where you are travelling, the activities you will be doing, and your age and general health.'
The healthcare company revealed the most common diseases customers were seeking advice on included Japanese encephalitis, rabies and hepatitis A.
More than a third of travellers are planning to jet off to long-haul locations this year, according to Boots, including with Thailand, India and China.
Claire added: 'If you're travelling abroad this summer, you may be exposed to diseases we don't usually have in the UK.
'Travel vaccinations may be recommended for your trip as a measure to help prevent you picking these illnesses up.
'The childhood vaccination programme in the UK provides protection from several diseases, but it may also be necessary to consider boosters or other vaccinations if you're planning to visit certain parts of the world.'
The pharmacist advised that holidaymakers should consider taking medications with them on their travels too.
Claire recommended several items including antihistamines and pain relief, regardless of the destination.
'Whether you're jetting off or keeping it local this summer, it's always wise to pack a few healthcare products depending on the destination you're travelling to,' she said.
'A small first aid kit may be a good start. You could consider including pain relief medicine, antihistamine medicine to help relieve symptoms of hayfever and other allergies, plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent and of course broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30.
'It's also important to make sure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medicines that you take.
'Additionally, I'd always check whether you might need medication to help prevent malaria.
'It is important that antimalarials are started before you travel to a place where you might be at risk.'
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