The European Health Insurance Card
For travel to the EU it is essential to hold a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This entitles you to reduced-cost, sometimes free, medical treatment that may become necessary while you are in a European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland. The Department of Health leaflet ´T7.1 - Health Advice for Travellers´ includes details of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Copies can be obtained free of charge from most Post Offices or by telephoning the Health Literature Line on 0800 555 777. You can pick up an EHIC application pack at most Post Offices or call the EHIC Applications Line on 0845 606 2030. You can also apply online at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers. A new application is also required if you change address. Although an EHIC is no substitute for effective travel insurance, many insurers require that you use your EHIC where appropriate.
Health hazards abroad - safety on holiday
You should be aware of potential hazards on holiday as walking amongst mountains, hills and even in cities does involve an element of risk. For example, weather can deteriorate unexpectedly and may cause paths to become slippery. Terrain underfoot can also vary and be different from what you’re used to. Walking poles can be a great aid to mobility over uneven ground, and they take some strain off the knees.
As the tour leader is responsible for the safety of all group members, he or she may adopt a more cautious approach than would be considered reasonable by an individual party member.
When travelling overseas it’s wise to take extra care. Temperatures, humidity or altitude may be higher than you are used to, changes in diet may affect you, and unpleasant insects may be encountered. There is useful information on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Travel Advice Unit on Ceefax and at www.fco.gov.uk .
Vaccinations
In the few holidays where there are mandatory requirements for vaccinations, details are given in the text and with your confirmation of booking. Unfortunately, apart from clarifying whether a health risk, however minor, has been identified in a destination we are unable to provide medical advice. Known hazards are identified in our General Information Booklet (issued with your confirmation of booking), but please contact your own GP for medical advice. We regret that our staff are not qualified to give medical advice relating to inoculations or other health matters.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
You may be aware of press reports concerning deep vein thrombosis, which can be caused by immobility. One of the recommended measures for reducing the risk whilst flying is to wear compression hosiery. Flight socks are available from most chemists and are proven to help with blood circulation and reducing the build-up of fluid that can cause this condition.
Exercise during the flight and limiting your consumption of dehydrating drinks, such as alcohol and coffee, may also help reduce any risk.
Some people are more susceptible to DVT, including those having undergone recent surgery, those with a family history of DVT, people undergoing hormone treatment, suffering from varicose veins or with blood-clotting abnormalities. If you are concerned, or feel that you might fall into a higher risk group, we recommend that you discuss your travel plans with your doctor. More general information can be found on the Department of Health website www.dh.gov.uk (then just type DVT into the search field).
Most insurance policies include DVT cover, provided that you are not travelling against medical advice and have disclosed any pre-existing condition. Please check your policy documents for details.
Helpful links
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Ideal for any questions you have about keeping healthy before and during your holiday.
www.fco.gov.uk The Foreign Office Travel Advice website for in depth worldwide travel advice.
What to take
It is advisable to take a small first aid kit with you including a remedy for stomach upsets. If you are diabetic, or suffer from vertigo, heart problems, asthma, epilepsy or some other disability which you think we or your leader should know about, then please advise us in writing. If you have not done so already, please include such details when sending us your final payment so we can ensure that your leader is made aware of your condition. Your insurance company must also be made aware.
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