What to do when you fall ill abroad

Even the most organised traveller can become ill while abroad, and while there are some things you just can't prevent you can try to stay healthy by taking vitamins and looking after yourself whilst on holiday.

Make sure that when you leave for your holiday you are healthy. Check that you have had your shots for diseases that are present in the area you are visiting.

Checklist of diseases

Here's a list of some of the diseases to check for:

  • Cholera
  • Diphtheria
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Japanese encephalitis
  • Malaria
  • Meningitis
  • Polio
  • Typhoid
  • Yellow Fever

For more information speak to your GP or you can also visit http://www.nhs.uk/Planners/vaccinations/Pages/Travelvaccines.aspx to find out more about travel vaccines.  Alternatively speak to a travel doctor to find out about vaccinations. Please note that some of the vaccinations need to be done 4-6 months prior departure and repeated within a certain period of time (i.e. two injections within 3 months before departure).When you are travelling remember to take care of yourself. Eat and sleep sensibly. If you get a scrape or cut clean it properly and apply antiseptic. Avoid drinking untreated water, and take care in the sun.

What to do if you do become ill...

If you do become ill here are some simple steps to follow to make sure you get the right treatment and recover.

  • As soon as you start showing symptoms write them down, or get one of your companions to do so. Check if others you are travelling with are suffering from similar symptoms.
  • Monitor your temperature and if you have a fever [38° and above] then check every three to four hours. Remember that not all fevers require medical attention but if they persist you should seek the advice of a doctor.
  • If you have a medical kit, use medication that is familiar to you.
  • Try to get a nurse or doctor who speaks English or a language you know well. If in doubt you can contact the British Embassy or Consulate of the country where you are travelling.

If you are distressed then contact emergency services. It is better to be safe.

It is always worth having adequate travel insurance before you leave. It is a small price to pay to ensure you will have access to the right medical services in the unfortunate event that you get ill when travelling.