Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday or you’re gearing up for a city break, it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared for your next trip – and this includes looking after your health. To help ensure medical woes don’t ruin your getaway, here are three holiday health tips everyone should know.
1. It pays to be sensible about sex
People tend to let their guard down when they’re away from home, and this can result in them being a little lax when it comes to sex. Whether you’re hoping for a holiday romance or not, it’s always a good idea to take condoms with you to protect you from STIs just in case you do meet someone.
If you’re travelling with your partner and you use birth control, don’t forget to take it with you. You might also want to pack a morning after pill in case your regular method of contraception fails. You can order emergency contraception online from trusted sources, and knowing that you have this with you can give you added peace of mind.
2. You should research travel vaccinations well in advance
Depending on where you’re going, you might need vaccinations to protect you from potentially serious diseases. You can get jabs to reduce the risk of contracting anything from polio, tetanus and diphtheria to typhoid, hepatitis B, rabies and yellow fever. If you’re heading to a place where there’s a risk of diseases like this, it’s essential that you visit a travel clinic – and don’t leave booking an appointment to the last minute. It’s recommended that you visit a clinic at least two months before you set off on your trip because certain vaccinations have to be given well in advance.
3. Basic food and water hygiene can stop you getting sick
There might be lots of enticing foods to sample on your adventures, but you’ll need to follow some basic food and drink hygiene rules if you want to avoid travellers’ diarrhoea. Bear in mind that if you consume contaminated food or water, your trip might be spoiled by a nasty bout of sickness. If you’re going to a country with poor sanitation, don’t drink tap water unless it’s been treated. Don’t even brush your teeth with it. Use bottled or boiled water instead. It’s also important to avoid drinks served with ice.
When it comes to eating in these countries, steer clear of salads, uncooked vegetables and fruits unless they have been washed in safe water. Also, don’t tuck into cooked or fresh food that’s been allowed to stand at room temperature if you’re staying somewhere warm. No matter how delicious they may look, it’s also wise to avoid dairy products and raw or undercooked seafood and shellfish.
Paying attention to tips like these should ensure you can enjoy your holidays without health concerns getting in the way.
