On holiday in Egypt
Page 2 of 2 STAYING HEALTHY
To obtain up to the minute professional advice on recommended vaccinations, make sure you visit a travel clinic or your GP in plenty of time before the start of your holiday, allowing at least eight weeks before travelling. However, do not expect jabs alone to do the job for you in order to stay healthy on holiday.
SENSE IN THE SUN
The sun is very strong in Egypt and great care should be taken not to expose the skin for long periods without adequate protection. Always use high factor suntan lotion and remember to cover up during the hottest part of the day. Particular care should be taken with children and those with delicate skin.
A few simple and sensible tips to enjoy the sun without burning:
- Build up time in the sun gradually
- Avoid the midday sun – between 11.00hrs and 15.00hrs
- Wear a hat and sunglasses that have UV protection
- Cover your shoulders
- Stay in the shade
- Use high protection sun cream appropriate for your skin tone
- Protect yourself whilst swimming – you can still burn in shallow water
- Don’t be fooled by a cool breeze or light cloud
- If you burn – take out the heat under a cool shower
- Apply ‘aftersun’ cream
- Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of bottled water
INSECT BITES
The risk of insect and mosquito bites may be reduced by the use of repellent sprays and by covering up whenever possible, especially at night.
AVOIDING ILLNESS
Many holidaymakers suffer from "travellers’ diarrhoea" at some time during their holiday. Sudden climatic and dietary changes are very often the cause of illness on holiday and it is important that you exercise a degree of caution for your own health.
Water (including tap water) may be contaminated. Tap water should not be used as drinking water or for cleaning teeth. To minimise the risk of stomach upset you should only drink bottled water from a reliable source and ensure the seal has not been broken. Avoid ice, very cold drinks and too much fruit. Eat and drink in moderation, particularly at the beginning of your holiday. We would also advise you not to buy food from street vendors.
There are a number of organisations who will be able to advise on health risks and staying safe in the sun such as:
Department of Health
Richmond House, 79 Whitehall, London SW1A 2NS
Tel: 020 7210 4850
www.doh.gov.uk
Cancer Research UK, National Office
PO Box 123 , Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX
Tel: 020 7242 0200
www.cancerresearchuk.org
The Hospital for Tropical Diseases
Mortimer Market Building, Capper Street, Tottenham Court Rd, London WC1E 6AU
Tel: 020 7387 4411
Fax: 020 7388 7645
www.thehtd.org
