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What is a High-Risk Traveller? Protect Your Health When Going on Holiday

Travelling can be an exciting adventure, but some journeys come with increased health risks that require careful preparation and expert medical advice. Here at MK Travel Clinic we specialise in helping travellers understand and reduce the risk of potential health challenges before they head off on their international journeys.

Who is Considered a High-Risk Traveller?

A high-risk traveller isn't just someone going to a dangerous destination. Several factors can elevate your travel health risk.

Key High-Risk Travel Profiles

  • Individuals travelling to developing countries.
  • Travellers visiting remote or rural areas.
  • People with pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Elderly travellers or young children.
  • Those visiting regions with known disease outbreaks.
  • Travellers planning extended stays or working abroad.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems.
  • Pregnant women.

Understanding Travel Health Risks

Different destinations have different health challenges. High-risk travellers may face increased exposure to infectious diseases, tropical illnesses, vaccine-preventable conditions, environmental health hazards or limited medical facility access.

Common High-Risk Health Concerns

  1. Malaria and Mosquito-Borne Diseases
  2. Malaria and mosquito-borne diseases are typically prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions such as Africa, Asia and Central America. These diseases can cause serious, life-threatening conditions and require special preventative treatment.

  3. Hepatitis and Typhoid
  4. Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid are more common in areas with poor sanitation. There are potentially severe consequences but they can be preventable through health vaccinations.

  5. Other Viral Infections
  6. Some countries require proof of vaccination for viruses such as COVID-19. Viruses can cause serious health complications which makes prevention crucial for the safe travel of high-risk travel groups.

Our Reviews Speak for Themselves

Our travel vaccination customers use us across Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley and Woburn Sands

Protecting Yourself - Essential Preparation Steps

If you fall into one of the vulnerable high-risk groups, taking steps to protect your health before travel is very important.

Pre-Travel Health Assessment

Schedule a comprehensive health consultation at least 6-8 weeks before departure. At your appointment, you will be able to discuss your specific travel itinerary, review your medical history and current health status. Once this is complete, the medical practitioner will give you personalised vaccination recommendations.

Vaccination and Medication Strategy

It's essential to obtain the necessary vaccinations within the recommended timeframes. It is also a good idea to discuss prescription medications for potential preventative treatment. Take the time to understand any potential side effects so you can travel at your optimum health.

Why Choose MK Travel Clinic

Additional Protective Measures

Travel Health Kit Essentials

Don’t forget to pack a health kit. Stock up on prescription medications, over-the-counter treatments, insect repellent, hand sanitiser, and first aid supplies. Be sure to check the country’s guidelines on which medication you are allowed to bring with you.

Travel Insurance Considerations

Ensure you take out comprehensive medical coverage insurance in case of emergencies. Check the policy for high-risk destination exclusions as well as high-risk traveller groups. It may be worth looking into additional health evacuation services too.

Our expert team provides personalised travel health consultations, up-to-date vaccination information, a professional, friendly service, and bespoke treatments. Don't let health risks affect your travel experience. Our dedicated health professionals are ready to help you prepare for a safe and healthy journey. Simply contact us today to book your health consultation.

Disclaimer: This advice is general guidance. Individual health assessments are needed for personalised recommendations.