Before you pack your bags, it's vital to consider the health risks of your chosen destination. Many popular travel spots require specific vaccinations to protect you from preventable diseases.
Let's look at some common travel destinations for North Easterners and the vaccinations you might need:
1. Beach Holidays (e.g., Spain, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Portugal, Canaries):
Routine vaccinations are key. For these popular holiday spots, generally, the risk of serious exotic diseases is lower, but you may still consider:
Hepatitis A: Still a good idea for most Mediterranean destinations, especially if you're eating out frequently or trying local street food.
Hepatitis B: As above, if activities increase your risk of exposure.
Typhoid: While less common in well-developed tourist areas, it can be a consideration if you're venturing off the beaten path or consuming food/water with uncertain hygiene.
Rabies: Though rare, if you plan to interact with animals, particularly stray dogs or bats, in rural parts of some of these countries.
2. Long-Haul Adventures (e.g., Thailand, India, Vietnam, Kenya, Mexico, Peru):
These destinations often carry a higher risk of certain diseases, making a visit to our Travel Clinic essential.
Hepatitis A & B: Highly recommended for most long-haul destinations due to varying hygiene standards and potential exposure risks.
Typhoid: Crucial for areas where sanitation and food hygiene might be poor.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio: Ensure these routine vaccinations are up to date.
Rabies: Particularly important if you'll be spending time in rural areas, engaging in activities with animals, or if medical facilities are limited.
Japanese Encephalitis: If you're visiting rural, agricultural areas, especially during monsoon season, for an extended period.
Yellow Fever: A mandatory vaccination for entry to some countries, particularly in parts of Africa and South America. Proof of vaccination (an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis) may be required.
Cholera: Recommended for some areas with poor sanitation, especially if working in humanitarian relief or living in challenging conditions.
For many long-haul destinations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, and South America, malaria is a significant risk. Mosquitoes transmit this serious disease, and prevention is key. Our travel clinic can provide:
Malaria Risk Assessment: We'll assess your specific itinerary and recommend the most appropriate anti-malarial medication if needed.
Prescription for Anti-Malarials: We can dispense a range of effective anti-malarial tablets to help prevent infection.
Long-distance travel can also bring its own set of challenges, even beyond infectious diseases:
Altitude Sickness: If your adventure involves ascending to high altitudes (e.g., trekking in the Andes, Himalayas, or Kilimanjaro), altitude sickness can be a real concern. We can discuss strategies for gradual acclimatisation and, if appropriate, prescribe medication like Acetazolamide (Diamox) to help your body adjust more quickly and reduce symptoms.
Jet Lag: Crossing multiple time zones can disrupt your body's natural circadian rhythm, leading to fatigue, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating for up to a few days. Our clinic can offer advice on managing jet lag symptoms, including the use of medication that helps to regulate sleep cycles for both your outbound and inbound journeys.
It's recommended to visit our Travel Clinic at least 6-8 weeks before your departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks to provide full protection. Even if you're planning a last-minute trip, it's always worth a consultation – some protection is better than none!
Our experienced teams at Riverview HC and Esh Winning pharmacies are here to provide personalised travel health advice, ensuring you're well-prepared for whatever your adventure brings.
Ready to get travel-ready? Book an appointment directly on the Riverview website for a consultation: https://riverviewhcpharmacy.co.uk/services/travel-clinic
Enjoy your travels, and let us help you stay healthy
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