NHS 24 has issued a warning to holidaymakers, urging them not to forget essential medicines when travelling, as the organisation frequently receives alerts from panicked travellers who have left vital prescriptions at home.
Commonly Forgotten Medications
According to NHS 24, commonly forgotten medications include inhalers, insulin, blood pressure tablets, and other needed prescriptions. Dr John McAnaw, associate clinical director at NHS 24, stated: "It happens more frequently than you might think. People arrive at their destination ready to enjoy themselves, then suddenly realise their medicine is still at home. It can quickly turn a relaxing break into a stressful one."
Missing doses of medicine, even for a short time, can have a real impact, particularly for people managing long-term health conditions.
Pack, Plan, Protect Campaign
As part of its summer campaign, NHS 24 is promoting its Pack, Plan, Protect messaging. This includes packing essential medicine, planning ahead with remedies for health needs such as bites, stings, or hay fever, and protecting oneself and loved ones during hot weather.
Dr McAnaw added: "It doesn't matter if you are jetting off to Jamaica or camping in the Cairngorms. Remember to take your medicine with you as it might not be easy to replace when you get there, especially if you are in an unfamiliar or remote area."
Practical Tips for Travellers
NHS 24 advises travellers to ensure they have enough medicine for their entire trip, keep it in an easily accessible place such as hand luggage, and check storage requirements, especially in warm weather. Dr McAnaw emphasised: "These are really easy steps, but they can save you a lot of hassle at a time when you should be enjoying yourself on your well-earned break."
For more summer health tips from NHS 24, visit their website.
