Departments
Sun-care and Travel
Travel
Lots of people are now enjoying holidays in far away and exotic desinations. It is very important to remember that diseases that are very rare in Northern Ireland are much more common in certain areas. Also some parts of the world do not have our sophisticated water and sewage treatment.
If you are planning a foreign trip it is always wise to plan ahead. Make sure you check if there are any vaccinations you need as soon as possible. Some vaccinations require more than one dose which might need to be several weeks apart.
If you are going to an area where there is a risk of Malaria you may have to take Malaria tablets. Often these need to be started before you leave. Please check with your GP practice for advice.
For more information about travel health
·Make sure you have appropriate travel insurance.
·If you are taking medication regularly do not forget to bring it with you.
·If you have any particular health concerns about your trip please contact your GP surgery for advice.
Care in the Sun
Everyone enjoys a sunny day. However too much sun can cause a range of problems.
·Sun burn
·Premature ageing
·Skin cancer
Remember that even in Northern Ireland the sun can cause damage.
Tips for Sun Exposure
· · Avoid going out in the sun between 11am and 3pm when the sun’s rays can do the most damage.
· ·Wear a high factor sunscreen (Factor 15 or above) and reapply it regularly.
· ·Seek the shade and cover up with clothing such as wide brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts, long trousers or skirts) and sunglasses with 99-100% UVA and UVB protection.
· ·Drink plenty of fluids (not alcohol).
· ·Use a lip balm.
· ·Avoid tanning both outdoors and in tanning booths.
· ·Examine yourself regularly for moles and skin irritations.
· ·Seek medical treatment for severe sunburn which results in blisters.
For more information visit
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=428§ionId=7142
Food poisoning
Food poisoning is very common. In 2005 there were xxx cases of food poisong notified to the Department. This represents only the tip of the iceberg, since many people with food poisoning look after themselves at home and do not visit a GP.
While food poisoning usually clears up after a few – unpleasant – days it can cause serious problems. We work closely with our colleagues in Environmental Health to follow up cases of food poisoning. We look for potential causes and links between cases and try to ensure possible causes are removed.
Tips for avoiding food poisoning