Before you travel, take steps to protect your health, especially if you are visiting friends or family abroad.

Even if you have lived in or visited the country before, do not assume you are protected against diseases such as malaria.

Visit the GOV.UK website for information about preventing malaria 

Before you travel: health tips and advice

  • Check the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website for health advice, vaccination recommendations and travel information for your destination.
     

  • Speak to your GP, practice nurse, pharmacist or a travel clinic at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. If your trip is sooner, it's still worth getting advice.
     

  • Some travel vaccinations can be given at short notice. If you need anti-malaria tablets, these can often be started shortly before you travel.
     

  • If you are travelling to an area where diseases such as malaria or dengue fever are spread by mosquitoes, protect yourself from insect bites. Use insect repellent, cover exposed skin and sleep under a mosquito net where needed.
     

  • Take care with food and drink, as illnesses such as travellers' diarrhoea and typhoid are more common in some countries. Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating or drinking and after using the toilet. Visit GOV.UK for advice on typhoid and how to protect yourself when travelling abroad.
     

  • If you develop symptoms such as a fever, flu-like illness or ongoing diarrhoea after you return home, seek medical advice straight away and tell the healthcare professional where you have travelled.
     

  • Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before you travel.

Visit the NaTHNaC for more information about protecting your health abroad