Some of the most exciting holidays I have taken have been abroad, but with international travel also comes an increased health risk. To protect yourself it is important to read the immunisation and health risk guide that is available from your local post office and published by the Department of Health.

See your doctor for vaccine advice

The booklet is called the Health Information for Overseas Travel. It is recommended that six months before you are scheduled to depart (especially tropical countries) you contact your doctor to ask about what immunisations and vaccines that you might need.

Even if you have kept the proper immunisation schedule there are additional immunisations that the country you are planning to enter may require. This varies from country to country so it is important to read the recommendations inside of the pamphlet or online at the Government’s travel webpage.

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. It is important that you take any prescribed medication for any health problems with you on holiday. I would also make a note of the medication you take.

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

Before leaving for the airport make sure to obtain proper documentation from your GP to confirm that you have had the required immunisations. At the border you will most likely be asked to show proof before you are allowed to travel, so be sure to pack it 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.

Swine flu precautions

Additionally, if you feel that you have fallen ill while on board a plane where air borne illness can quickly spread it is important to alert your flight attendant who can take special precautionary measures to protect you and other passengers adequately.

This is particularly relevant at the moment with regard to high fever and possible swine flu symptoms due to the increase in cases in countries across the world; there is no immunisation effective against swine flu at this time.

Please note

The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this guide cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. In other words contact your doctor for more information.