Staying healthy while travelling can help to ensure your trip overseas is a happy and enjoyable one. Before you go be prepared

Vaccinations and health checks.
Make an appointment with your doctor for a basic check-up at least 6-8 weeks before you depart to find out if any vaccinations or health checks are required.

It is important that you discuss your personal travel plans with a doctor so they can determine the correct vaccinations for your trip and any booster doses of childhood vaccinations that may be necessary.

Vaccines can prevent you from contracting some diseases, but it is important to also remember:

• vaccines are not perfect. New vaccines are constantly being released but diseases continue to evolve



• some vaccines require a long period to take effect and may require more than one dose, but it is never too late to vaccinate



• you may need boosters for childhood vaccines



• health risks within a country can vary from locality to locality and local authorities may be slow to announce outbreaks of disease



• new diseases, such as SARS, can appear suddenly. Check out the latest travel advice and travel bulletins for your destination before you depart, and while travelling, so you can ensure you have the latest information



• common infections contracted by travellers include those which are the result of eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Find out whether tap water and local food is safe to consume before you depart



• there are a number of mosquito-borne illnesses you can contract while overseas particularly in tropical areas. Be sure to take measures to avoid being bitten such as wearing light coloured, loose fitting clothing that covers your arms and legs, regularly applying an appropriate insect repellent and staying in mosquito-proof accommodation.