WITH the start of the school summer break, people in Scotland are being urged to prepare ahead to ensure they have a safe and healthy holiday, whether at home or abroad.
Scotland’s national telehealth and telecare service, NHS 24, is advising people to visit www.nhsinform.co.uk to get helpful tips and advice on summer holiday health issues, from sunburn and stings to travel sickness and heat exhaustion.
The online health resource includes a section dedicated to a ‘Safe Summer in Scotland’ providing information on how to stay safe in the heat and sun, as well as travel tips and advice about the safe preparation of food.
NHS 24 Medical Director Professor George Crooks said: “It is always a good idea to be prepared whether on holiday at home or abroad and the wide range of information available at www.nhsinform.co.uk can help you do just that. Whether it is finding out what vaccinations to have before travelling, what to do when an upset tummy strikes or how to deal with insect bites, the information is readily available.
“If you take regular medication, make sure you have enough to last for your whole trip. Remember to order and pick up your repeat prescription in plenty of time before your departure to prevent any last minute delays or unnecessary panic.
“It is essential to always wear sunscreen when out in the sun, even in the UK. I would urge everyone to use a high factor sunscreen to protect themselves against the sun’s harmful rays. And if you are planning any picnics or barbecues in the coming weeks, it is important to keep food refrigerated until you leave home and use a cool box or bag to transport fresh food, particularly if you are taking meats or dairy products.
“For people planning to holiday in Europe, they should make sure they have a European Health Insurance Card. Information on where to apply is available at NHS inform.
“By taking these simple steps, you can help minimise or even prevent minor health problems from ruining your holiday.”
For more information, visit:
http://www.nhsinform.co.uk/health-in-focus/campaigns/safe-summer-in-scotland/
Follow us at @NHS24 and @NHSinform and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nhs24
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