It’s autumn in the UK now, and while there are still travel restrictions today, the situation is not going to be permanent. So, it may be the right time to learn what to do before, during, and after your travel, particularly if you are taking medication.
If you have some health concerns, getting ready for a long overseas trip may require more from you. However, you can make things easier if you do some careful planning.
Before your big trip
Spending part of summer or autumn in another country is always a welcome idea because the weather is conducive. The weather in the UK is unpredictable, so spending summer somewhere where you can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air sounds great. Tropical countries have balmy weather when Europe is gearing for winter.
However, it is still necessary to check travel advisories. There could be political or health issues in the countries you plan to visit. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office regularly issue travel advisories, so make sure you check their websites to get an update.
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Likewise, it is vital to monitor the website of Gov.uk and the UK FCO website for health advice for travelers. These websites provide general and country-specific health advisories regularly.
Secure an appointment with your doctor. You should do this step four to six weeks before you depart. Your doctor will check if your routine vaccinations for hepatitis A, tetanus and influenza are up to date. Your GP will also check if you need additional vaccines that some countries require. You may need some medication for malaria, as well as antibiotics, to prevent traveller’s diarrhoea.
You should also request the latest medical information if you are suffering from a chronic illness. You should check the benefits of travel insurance, as well.
Check with your pharmacy if you can have an early medication refill if you need it for your overseas trip. The specialists at “Anytime Doctor” can help you with your medication and prescription refills when necessary.
During your trip
If you are going overseas, consider wearing compression stockings to minimise swelling of your feet and prevent blood clots due to sitting for long periods. Alternatively, you can stand up and walk along the aisle when allowed. Exercise your legs by doing ankle circles and calf-raises.
On the ground, wear light-coloured clothes and use an insect repellent to keep mosquitoes away.
If you are new to the place, avoid eating raw food and make sure only to drink purified water from sealed bottles. See to it that you only eat cooked meat and vegetables. When having fruits, make sure that you peel them yourself. It is critical to stay away from street food. Practice basic sanitary hygiene, such as using a hand sanitiser, wet tissues or soap to clean our hands.
After your trip
It is necessary to finish taking the malaria medication your GP required even if you did not get sick. This may take another week or up to four weeks. The symptoms of malaria may appear 30 days after your trip, but there are cases when it appeared after a year.
Careful planning for an overseas trip will help you enjoy your vacation without worrying about your health. A visit to your doctor for a check up is a good idea after you’ve returned home.
