When traveling, the last thing anyone wants is to end up in a foreign hospital. Unfortunately, seemingly harmless activities like enjoying a cold drink or wearing flip flops can have serious consequences. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), every week, 3,000 Brits require emergency medical treatment while abroad. From contaminated water to sprained ankles, there are numerous health risks to be aware of while on holiday. In this article, experts explain these risks and provide tips on how to minimize them.
One common risk is the use of ice cubes in drinks. Although freezing the water kills some bacteria, certain hardy bugs like E. coli and cholera can survive the freezing process. Even when the ice cubes thaw, viable bacteria can still be present. Similarly, ice cream from street sellers can also harbor bacteria, so caution is advised.
Another major concern is using contaminated water to wash fruit or brush your teeth. If the water contains faecal bacteria, which is common in certain parts of Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, and even some Western countries, using it for these purposes can lead to illnesses like E. coli or salmonella. It is recommended to drink bottled water or boil the water before using it to avoid diarrhoea or cholera.
While flip flops may be great for poolside lounging, they provide little support and can lead to injuries like sprained ankles, fractures, or blisters, especially during longer walks or when alcohol is involved. It is advisable to wear more secure footwear for longer walks and provide children with secure shoes to prevent accidents.
On the other hand, flip flops can protect against infections like verrucae or athlete’s foot when used in poolside or changing areas, where these infections are common.
Before even reaching your holiday destination, the stress of rushing to the airport and lack of sleep on long-haul or night flights can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Even just one night of poor sleep can have a significant impact on immune function.
Swimming in polluted seas or lakes can also pose health risks, as these waters may contain bacteria that can cause infections and diseases like E. coli or cholera. Salt water is generally safer for swimming than fresh water, but people with weakened immune systems should be cautious.
When traveling abroad, it is important to follow food and water precautions to protect yourself from viruses, bacteria, and harmful chemicals. This includes getting recommended vaccinations, preparing a first aid kit, practicing proper hand hygiene, choosing fresh and hot foods, avoiding raw seafood, and drinking bottled or boiled water.
By being aware of these health risks and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the chances of falling ill and enjoy a safe and healthy holiday.
Source: NHS
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
