It’s important for travellers to consider completing a full travel risk assessment, of their intended journey.

Each traveller’s risks are different and assessments need be tailored to suit their needs taking into account things such as:-

• Destination
• Dates of travel
• Length of stay
• Accomodation
• Medical history and previous vaccination

The assessment will help identify required or recommended vaccinations and antimalarials.

But providing a full travel risk assessment isn’t just about vaccines as it should also include (if applicable) advice on:-

• Bite prevention
• Sun protection
• Safe sex
• Drinking water
• Standby treatments ie travellers diarrhoea, period delay
• Travel insurance

When providing travel heath advice, it’s important to have knowledge of travel diseases and immunisations, risks associated with specific destinations, and the implications of travelling with underlying conditions. And be able to discuss the risks clearly with travellers to help them make an informed decision on what’s right for them.

For more information on completing a risk assessment visit the Pharmacy Excellence – Travel Risk Assessment Module