The practice provides information about medical aspects of foreign travel and will vaccinate according to the latest advice.

When travelling abroad it is advisable to contact the practice a couple of months before going so that vaccines can be given early enough to be effective. For most travel within central Europe, and to the USA, there is no need for extra cover.  However  for many 'exotic' countries it may be necessary to have typhoid, hepatitis A, polio and tetanus vaccine, as well as anti-malaria tablets.  We do not charge for holiday vaccinations, and most of these are in stock in the practice.  However some have to be obtained on a private prescription, as do some malaria tablets.

Anti-malaria treatment is essential for many foreign countries outside Europe and America.  Lariam or Mefloquine is sometimes the only useful drug, as resistance to the old medications is rising.  Lariam does have potential side effects and we strongly advise you discuss this with either the nurse or your doctor.  A newer preparation called Malarone is increasingly indicated in certain areas - this is often very effective and relatively free of side effects.

Our nurses are  happy to give advice on other health issues related to travel, such as what to put in a medicine bag, how to treat travellers' diarrhoea, sun exposure etc.

A useful website which will give an abundance of foreign travel advice is

THE TRAVEL DOCTOR
www.traveldoctor.co.uk