Makewell Top Tips for Healthy Travel

Preparing to travel means being on top of your health and well-being so that you can get the most from your trip. At Makewell, your trusted private health clinic in Milton Keynes, we are committed to providing you with the best advice and care to ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable. Here are our top tips for healthy travel:

 

1. Accidents

• Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid risky areas, especially at night.
• Travel Safely: Use seat belts in vehicles, wear helmets on bikes, and be cautious on unfamiliar roads.
• First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers for minor injuries.
• Alcohol & Drugs: Excessive alcohol or drug use can lead to risky behaviour and may invalidate insurance claims. Be especially careful of illicit production that may be a poisoning hazard.

 

2. Personal Safety

• Stay Informed: Research your destination and be aware of any safety concerns. Check The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office for advice on safety and security for your destination here.
• Secure Belongings: Use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your valuables safe.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.

 

3. Food & Water

• Eat Smart: Choose cooked foods and avoid raw or undercooked dishes. Stick to reputable restaurants and street vendors.
• Avoid Contaminated Foods: Avoid foods that are prone to contamination such as salads, uncooked or unwashed fruit & vegetables, unpasteurized dairy products, and food that has been left uncovered in warm environments, such as buffets.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water. Avoid ice cubes and use safe water for brushing your teeth.
• Wash Hands: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating.

 

 

4. Diarrhoea

• Prevention: Practice good personal hygiene, always wash your hands before eating, and follow the food and water safety guidance above.
• Pack Medicines: Bring anti-diarrhoeal medication and oral rehydration salts to mix with safe drinking water.
• Stay Hydrated: If you get diarrhea, drink plenty of safe fluids to stay hydrated.
• Seek Help: If symptoms persist more than 48 hours or are severe, such as having a temperature above 38 degrees centigrade, seek medical attention promptly.

 

5. Blood & Sexually Transmitted Infections

• Avoid New Tattoos and Piercings: These can pose risks if not done in a sterile environment.
• Medical Procedures: Ensure needles and medical equipment are sterile if you need medical treatment.
• Be Cautious with Razors and Needles: Avoid sharing razors or used needles to prevent infections.
• Practice Safe Sex: Avoid unprotected sex with a new partner. Condoms can reduce the risk of contracting HIV, AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections, as well as unwanted pregnancy.
• Seek Help: Obtain medical advice if you suspect you have a bloodborne or sexually transmitted infection (STI).

 

 

6. Bite Prevention

• Avoid Stagnant Water: Stay away from areas where mosquitos are most likely to breed.
• Use Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing 50% DEET or picaridin.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Cover exposed skin with long sleeves, trousers, and socks, especially at dawn and dusk. Clothing can be sprayed with insecticide for added protection.
• Sleep Safely: Use mosquito nets and stay in accommodation with screens or air conditioning to reduce the nighttime temperature.
• Treat Insect Bites: Use 1% hydrocortisone cream and seek medical attention if the bite becomes enlarged, red, and hot to touch.

 

7. Sun Protection

• Apply Generously: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously 30 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply Often: Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, usually between 10 AM and 4 PM.

 

 

8. Travel Insurance

• Get Covered: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation.
• Keep Documents Handy: Carry your insurance details with you and know how to contact your provider in case of an emergency.
• Understand Your Policy: Familiarise yourself with what your insurance covers, including any exclusions or limitations.

 

9. Vaccinations & Medication

• Remember: Book your travel vaccinations in Milton Keynes with Makewell several weeks before your trip.
• Take Enough Medication: Bring enough medication for your trip and always keep prescription medication in the original labelled containers.
• Carry Prescriptions: Carry a copy of your prescriptions and check the legal status of your medicine in the country you are traveling to, as it may differ from the UK.

 

10. Find Out More

For more detailed advice on travel health, visit these resources:

• Fit for Travel
• NaTHNaC

Following these tips will help ensure you have a safe and healthy trip. Enjoy your travels! If you need travel vaccinations or further advice, book an appointment at our private health clinic in Milton Keynes today.