Travel Health Advice and Medications
Prepare for your next adventure with Medihealth Direct. Learn about travel-related health risks, how to prevent illness, and order travel medications with free next-day delivery.
Why is Travel Health Important?
Travelling to new places, especially internationally, exposes you to unfamiliar environments, climates, and health risks. Whether you’re planning a holiday or a business trip, preparing for potential health concerns is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Common Travel-Related Health Concerns
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease common in tropical and subtropical regions. Symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like illness. Preventative measures include antimalarial tablets and insect repellent.
Traveller’s Diarrhoea
Often caused by consuming contaminated food or water, symptoms include loose stools, nausea, and abdominal cramps. Rehydration salts and antidiarrheal medications can provide relief.
Motion Sickness
Travelling by plane, car, or boat can cause nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Motion sickness can be managed with antihistamines or prescription medications.
Altitude Sickness
High altitudes can cause symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Acclimatisation and medications such as acetazolamide can help.
Insect-Borne Diseases
Insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies can spread diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and Lyme disease. Using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing are effective preventative measures.
How to Prepare for Your Trip
Research Your Destination
- Identify health risks specific to your travel destination.
- Check for required vaccinations or preventative medications.
Pack a Travel Health Kit
- Include items like first-aid supplies, antimalarials, rehydration salts, and any prescription medications you require.
Take Precautions Against Food and Water Contamination
- Drink bottled or boiled water.
- Avoid raw or undercooked food.
Use Insect Protection
- Apply insect repellent containing DEET.
- Sleep under a treated mosquito net if staying in areas at risk of malaria or dengue.
Travel Medications and Vaccinations
Antimalarial Tablets
Medihealth Direct offers a variety of antimalarial tablets, including:
- Malarone: A daily tablet taken before, during, and after travel.
- Doxycycline: An antibiotic with antimalarial properties.
- Lariam: A weekly tablet effective for certain destinations.
Vaccinations
Some destinations require vaccinations for diseases such as:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Yellow fever
Consult your GP or travel clinic well in advance to determine which vaccinations you need.
Prescription Medications
You can order travel-related prescription medications online at Medihealth Direct. Complete a quick consultation to get the medications you need, delivered discreetly to your door.
Vaccinations for Hajj & Umrah
All travellers to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah must present a valid certificate of vaccination for the Meningococcal quadrivalent ACWY vaccine. The certificate should be issued no more than 3 years and no less than 10 days before arrival in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
For the latest Hajj rules and requirements, please check the Saudi embassy website, your airline, or your Hajj and Umrah organiser.
FAQs About Travel Health
How soon before my trip should I prepare?
Start preparing at least 6-8 weeks before your trip to allow time for vaccinations and medication schedules.
Can I take travel medications if I’m pregnant?
Certain travel medications are safe for pregnant women, but consult your healthcare professional for personalised advice.
What if I forget my medication while travelling?
If you forget your medication, visit a local pharmacy or clinic. Carry a copy of your prescription to help with replacements.
How can I avoid traveller’s diarrhoea?
Stick to bottled water, avoid ice cubes, and eat freshly cooked food.
What vaccinations are mandatory for travel?
Some countries require proof of vaccinations, such as yellow fever, for entry. Check entry requirements before travelling.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is a severe infection of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain. Without prompt treatment, it can cause serious damage to the nervous system and even lead to fatal blood poisoning (sepsis). To counter major meningitis outbreaks during the Hajj season, the meningitis ACWY vaccine has been mandatory for all pilgrims including those performing the Umrah pilgrimage.
Meningitis ACWY Vaccine Certificate
After administering the meningitis ACWY vaccine, Medihealth Direct will provide you with a certificate of vaccination which is required for entry into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Your name on the certificate of vaccination MUST match that in your passport.
Price: £39.99/dose