Summer is here, and many of us are looking forward to enjoying a well-deserved holiday, either abroad or in the UK.

However, travelling can also bring some health and safety risks that we need to be aware of and prepared for. Here are some tips to help you have a safe and healthy holiday this summer.

Check the travel advice and requirements

Before you book your trip, make sure you check the latest travel advice and requirements for your destination. You can find the most up-to-date information on foreign travel advice on GOV.UK, The Travel Health Pro website is also useful: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/

You should also check if you need any vaccinations or medications to protect you from diseases that are common in some parts of the world, such as malaria, yellow fever, or hepatitis A. You can find out which vaccinations you need on the Travel Health Pro website, and contact your GP or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before you travel to get them.

Pack a travel health kit

It’s always a good idea to pack a travel health kit with some essential items that can help you deal with minor illnesses or injuries while you are away. Your travel health kit may include:

• A first aid kit with bandages, plasters, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, and a thermometer
• Painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Antihistamines, for allergies or insect bites
• Anti-diarrhoea tablets, oral rehydration salts, and antacids, for stomach problems
• Sunscreen, insect repellent, and after-sun lotion, for sun and insect protection
• Condoms, for sexual health
• Any prescription medications you take regularly, with a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor if needed
• A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
• A travel insurance policy that covers your medical expenses, repatriation, and any activities you plan to do

Be careful with food and water

One of the most common causes of illness among travellers is food and water contamination, which can lead to diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, and fever. To avoid this, you should follow some simple rules, such as:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or drinking, and after using the toilet or touching animals
• Drink only bottled water or boiled water, and avoid ice cubes, tap water, or fountain drinks
• Eat only freshly cooked food that is served hot, and avoid raw or undercooked meat, seafood, eggs, or dairy products
• Peel or wash fruits and vegetables with safe water before eating them, and avoid salads or unpeeled fruits
• Avoid street food, buffets, or food that has been left out for a long time
• If you do get sick, drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, and seek medical attention if your symptoms are severe or last more than a few days

Stay safe in the sun and heat

Summer can bring high temperatures and strong sunlight, which can pose some health risks, such as sunburn, heatstroke, dehydration, or skin cancer. To stay safe in the sun and heat, you should:

• Avoid exposure to the sun between 11am and 3pm, when it is strongest, and seek shade or stay indoors
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and loose-fitting clothes that cover your skin, and apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim
• Drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks, which can dehydrate you
• Keep cool by using a fan, air conditioning, or a wet towel, and avoid strenuous activities or exercise in the heat
• Look out for signs of heat-related illness, such as headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or fainting, and seek medical help if you or someone else has a high temperature, rapid breathing, or seizures

Have fun and enjoy your holiday

Travelling can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be stressful or challenging at times. To make the most of your holiday, you should:

• Plan ahead and do some research on your destination, such as the culture, customs, laws, and language, and respect them
• Be flexible and adaptable, and expect some changes or delays in your itinerary
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid risky situations, such as walking alone at night, carrying large amounts of cash, or using illegal drugs
• Keep in touch with your family and friends, and let them know your travel plans and contact details
• Take care of your mental health, and seek support if you feel anxious, depressed, or lonely

Travelling can be a great opportunity to learn, explore, and have fun. By following these tips, you can be prepared for any health and safety issues that may arise and have a safe and healthy holiday this summer.