King's Pharmacy
Travel Stress-Free With Our 5 Step Travel Health Checklist
We know that after not having travelled for over a year, and with the ever-changing nature of regulations – you may be feeling stressed about planning any trips abroad. Whether you are looking to head off on a business trip, or making up for lost family holidays, we are here to help. We have collated this ultimate 5 step travel health checklist using our Birmingham-based services, to show you how we can help you travel, in a way that is both stress-free and safe.
1. Make sure to pack plenty of SPF and sun protection
SPF helps to protect exposed parts of your body from the damaging effects of the sun. Prolonged sun exposure often causes sunburn; according to the NHS, this increases your risk of developing skin cancer. Despite popular misconceptions, it is in fact possible to get burnt even when the weather is cloudy, and you are in the UK. This is why we recommend daily SPF application.
You can visit us for advice on which SPF is right for you, as well as to stock up on the products you need to stay protected. We also offer prescription sunglasses so that you can take in your surroundings with clarity, whilst protecting your eyes from the sun.
Find out more about protecting your eyes in the sun below!
2. Ensure that your vaccinations are up-to-date
When you travel abroad, you may be exposed to pathogens that your body has not developed protection against. This can lead to infection with diseases such as Yellow Fever or Hepatitis A. By having any necessary vaccinations in advance of your trip, you will develop adequate protection against them.
We are one of the few pharmacies across the UK certified as a Yellow Fever vaccination centre; we offer a range of vaccinations to suit your needs, as well as antimalarials to keep you protected wherever you go.
3. Remember to pack mobility aids, if needed
If you require mobility aids to help you get around, we believe that this should not get in the way of enjoying your holiday. That’s why we offer a range of transport-friendly, easily-condensed mobility aids such as wheelchairs and rollators. We also offer a range of incontinence products, supplied by Attends, to ensure that you stay comfortable on your travels.
4. Book your PCR tests in plenty of time
The constant updating of the red, amber and green travel lists means that regulations may vary between airlines and countries. Ultimately, it is important to stay up to date with Government guidance in advance of your trip. We offer a PCR test to make sure you have everything you need before you fly.
You can find out more information in our latest blog post.
5. Make sure you consider any travel health concerns before your trip
If you are jetting off abroad, you should make sure that you are aware of any travel health concerns. This includes ensuring that you have plenty of Covid PPE, such as face masks, as well as regularly washing and sanitising your hands as you normally would. Further tips regarding adapting to your destination’s Covid regulations can be found on the Government website.
If you suffer from allergies, you should also take care to check your accommodation for any potential allergens. This also extends to informing your airline of your allergy, as well as any restaurants you may be visiting. If there is a chance that you may be sexually active whilst away, we also offer sexual health services, including contraception, free condoms, and an advance supply of the morning after pill for your peace of mind. It is also important that you order your prescriptions in advance so you don’t get caught out.
Visit your local branch to carry out your travel health checklist in Birmingham!
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