Dr Xand, the BBC television doctor, has shared a simple five-step checklist to help travellers avoid holiday sickness, revealing that the biggest danger does not come from eating dodgy food but from road traffic accidents.
The Five-Step Checklist
Speaking on Morning Live on May 11, Dr Xand outlined key measures to minimise the risk of contracting viruses or diseases while abroad. These include:
- Hand washing: Emphasised as critically important, especially when the digestive system is not accustomed to local bugs.
- Avoiding local animals: Including monkeys and even local dogs, as they can carry diseases.
- Ordering drinks without ice: Ice made from unsafe water can melt and release harmful bugs into the drink.
- Using insect repellent: To protect against animal-borne diseases.
- Knowing what to do in an emergency: Dr Xand highlighted this as the "number one rule" for travellers.
Emergency Preparedness
Dr Xand advised travellers to be aware of who to call locally in an emergency, ensure their insurance is up to date, and know the location of the nearest hospital. He stated: "You shouldn't let all these fears stop you from going on your adventures. I think it's brilliant that you go and do these things."
The Real Danger: Road Traffic Accidents
While steps like avoiding ice and animals can lower the risk of contracting viruses, Dr Xand warned of a more common threat: road traffic accidents. He said: "You can be disoriented and things can go wrong quite quickly. So the first thing I would say; if you're on holiday, do not worry about Hantavirus, worry about crossing the road, look both ways. Road traffic accidents are the number one danger to travellers around the world."
Hantavirus Concerns
Dr Xand explained that only specific groups, such as ship passengers, need to be concerned about Hantavirus. For most travellers, focusing on basic safety measures is more important.
