WAYS TO STAY WELL on holiday

Don't let a dicky tummy or infections spoil your trip. Here's how to be safe and healthy, and enjoy your break to the max

- TANYA PEAREY

We've been so looking forward to it - and boy, do we deserve it! Going on vacation is a highlight of the year for most of us, so we don't want to ruin it with an upset stomach, pesky bug bites or poolside germs. But whether we're staying in the UK or abroad, we might be more prone to getting ill when we're away because of the change to our routines, including a different environment and food and drink.

The good news, however, is that there are a few easy precautions we can take to lower our risk of health issues.

TUMMY BUG?

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugary drinks. Oral rehydration sachets can help, and coconut water is a natural rehydration fluid.

POOLSIDE PROTECTION

Hitting the pool is the ideal way to cool down on a hot day, but even a quick dip can lead to infections, tummy bugs and skin irritation. 'Chlorine doesn't kill all germs instantly, so there's always a chance you are swimming in contaminated water,' says Boots pharmacist Bina Mehta.

Shower before and after swimming, and change out of wet costumes as soon as possible to lower your risk of things such as urinary tract infections.