What are the Common Travel Health Risks

Travelling abroad comes with health risks that you might not face at home. Health risks do not always mean getting sick due to a disease. It also means getting sick because of altitude, heat and humidity, etc.

Although you can't prepare for every health risk, getting travel vaccinations is one of the best ways to protect yourself. These vaccines can protect you from diseases common in other parts of the world.

Let’s discuss common health risks and their prevention and why travel vaccinations are important before travelling.

What are the Common Travel Health Risks?

When travelling internationally, especially to tropical or developing regions, you may encounter several health risks. Here are some of the most common ones-

1.      Infectious Diseases- Diseases like malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B are prevalent in many parts of the world. These can be transmitted through insect bites, contaminated food and water, or person-to-person contact.

2.      Traveller’s Diarrhoea- It is often caused by consuming contaminated food or water. It can quickly ruin your trip with symptoms like severe stomach cramps, nausea, and dehydration.

3.      Respiratory Infections- The close quarters of aeroplanes and crowded tourist sites can increase the risk of respiratory infections such as influenza and COVID-19.

4.      Jet Lag and Altitude Sickness- Long-haul flights and travel to high-altitude destinations can cause jet lag and altitude sickness. This leads to fatigue, headaches, and difficulty sleeping.

5.      Sunburn and Heatstroke- Exposure to intense sunlight and high temperatures can cause severe sunburn and heatstroke, especially in tropical and desert climates.

How to Prevent Travel Health Risks?

It's always better to prevent health issues than to deal with them later, especially when travelling. Here are some effective ways to protect your health from travel health risks-

1.      Get Travel Vaccinations- Vaccinations are your primary protection against many infectious diseases. Visit our travel clinic well in advance of your trip to determine which vaccines are necessary for your destination.

2.      Practise Good Hygiene- Regular handwashing with soap and water, using hand sanitisers, and avoiding touching your face can reduce the risk of many infections.

3.      Be Cautious with Food and Water- Only drink bottled or purified water, avoid ice cubes, and eat food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Be cautious of raw vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled.

4.      Use Insect Repellents and Nets- Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellents containing DEET, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets.

5.      Prepare for Jet Lag and Altitude Sickness- Adjust to new time zones gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeine. For high-altitude destinations, ascend slowly and consider medication to prevent altitude sickness.

6.      Protect Yourself from the Sun- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours. Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in cool places.

Why is Getting Travel Vaccinations Important Before Travelling?

Getting travel vaccinations before your trip is important for several reasons. Here's why travel vaccinations are important-

1.      Disease Prevention- They protect you from serious illnesses that are not common in the UK but are present in other countries.

2.      Public Health Safety- By getting vaccinated, you reduce the risk of bringing infectious diseases back home, protecting your community.

3.      Travel Regulations- Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations for entry. Ensuring you are vaccinated can prevent travel disruptions.

Which is the Best Travel Clinic Near Me?

When it comes to preparing for your travel health needs, Pearl Chemist Group is your trusted partner. We offer comprehensive services including consultations, vaccinations, and travel health advice tailored to your destination.

With convenient locations across South London, we ensure that your pre-travel health preparations are thorough and stress-free. Our experienced team provides personalised care, ensuring you are fully protected for your journey.

So, if you need a reliable travel clinic, visit us in Morden or Streatham for our travel clinic services.

Visit Pearl Chemist Group for Travel Vaccinations

Travelling the world can be one of life's greatest joys, but it comes with health risks that should not be overlooked.
We support all your travel health needs, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Book an appointment with us for travel vaccinations in Banstead, Earlsfield, or Epsom.