A recent survey has shown that many British tourists do not have a clue about whether or not they need vaccinations when travelling abroad or which destinations they are needed for.
As many as 56% admitted to not knowing which countries they needed jabs or medication for, 36% couldn't recall when they last had any vaccinations and 31% knew they had been vaccinated, but not what for.
Most of the travellers questioned were also unaware that these vaccinations are infact free on the NHS. While no-one can be forced to have the vaccinations before travelling, the implication of catching infections and diseases whilst abroad does not bear thinking about.
The most common vaccinations for travellers visiting tropical countries or third world destinations are yellow fever, hepatitis, polio, diphtheria and typhoid, although there may be others depending on the individual country.
Risk factors differ as to where you are staying and what you will be doing whilst there. Travellers spending a few days in a high class hotel are far less likely to contract infectious diseases as someone venturing into natural habitats like safaris, mountain climbing and desert trips.
Many people have a fear of injections and therefore will always choose European destinations with low risk factors. Holidays to Ibiza, Tenerife, Benidorm or Portugal for example, do not have any recommended vaccinations however it is always worth bearing in mind that Hepatitis A is easily contracted through contaminated water and perhaps worth having just to be on the safe side.
Malaria tablets are also advisable for certain regions of Central and Southern America, parts of Asia and the Middle East and most areas of Africa.
Head of Post Office Travel Insurance, Rachel Croft stated "It is worrying to see that so many of us are careless when it comes to checking whether vaccines or preventative medicines such as malaria tablets are recommended before visiting a destination".
So it always worth checking with your local GP to find out what vaccinations are recommended for the region you are travelling to whether your holidays to Ibiza or further afield. Always take out travel insurance and make sure you keep yourself safe and well and enjoy your holidays abroad to the fullest.
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