Travel
Travel and Covid-19
With the current pandemic, travel rules to various parts of the world are constantly changing as the government tries to slow the spread of the virus. If you do need to travel during this time, make sure you consult the government website to check which rules apply to the country you plan on visiting. This website will not only give you guidence on the rules and regulations of visiting foreign countries, but also any quarantine periods that may be required upon your return.
Please be aware that you may need to provide proof of your two Covid-19 vaccinations before and during your travels. In some instances, the card you were given when you had your vaccination is not deemed sufficient proof. If you were vaccinated in the UK and have the NHS App, your proof of vaccination, along with a QR code, should appear on the App. This will be accepted as proof of vaccination. Additionally you can apply for a NHS COVID Pass. This provides proof of your status both within the UK and abroad, and you can apply for one through the NHS App, the NHS website, and by calling 119. If you require the pass to be posted to you, please allow up to 5 days.
General Health Travel Advice: Travelling abroad is exciting but with so many things to see and do when you get there, the basics of health and safety are often neglected.
Travel kit checklist
- Antiseptic
- Sunscreen
- After Sun Lotion
- Insect Repellent
- Condoms
- Antihistamines
- Anti-Diarrhoea Pills
- Rehydration Sachets
- First Aid Kit
Consider the type of travel for Malaria Protection
Travel in rural areas, jungle trips and treks, particularly with outdoor sleeping, increases risk of bites. High altitude may eliminate risk – there is no risk of malaria in Nairobi, Addis Ababa or Machu Picchu because they are so far above sea level.
The risk of malaria varies according to season. Mosquitoes breed in water and thrive after rainy seasons or monsoons.
Bite Avoidance
Mosquitoes bite at dusk (Though African ones bite later than Amazonian ones) and
- Are attracted by dark colours
- Are attracted by carbon dioxide
- Like large male adults
Travellers should wear white, long sleeves and trousers in the evening to minimise risk. Loose-fitting clothes are more difficult for mosquitoes to bite through.
Repellents
These will reduce biting. There is some evidence suggesting Eucalyptus Citriodora can be an effective natural alternative.
Nets
These are an excellent way of reducing bites, particularly when impregnated with an insecticide, ideally deltamethrin. Nets can be bought from camping shops, travel clinics or online. Travellers should practice putting them up.
Insecticides
These are useful in hotel rooms. A knock down spray will kill insects and a coil or electrical device that vaporises an insecticide will reduce the chances of being bitten.
Chemoprophylaxis – Antimalarials & Compliance
The links below are to NHS recognised travel advice websites:
Travel Health for information of vaccinations available on NHS
MASTA for private vaccination clinics
Gov.uk for specific country travel advice
EHIC to apply for your free European Health Insurance Card
