Your winter travel checklist for extra peace of mind

A change of scene can be just what we need at this stressful time of year so Boots Superintendent Pharmacist CLAIRE NEVINSON shares her top tips for staying safe and well on your travels

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1 CHECK IF YOU NEED ANY TRAVEL VACCINATIONS OR ANTIMALARIALS

Travel jabs and antimalarials may need to be considered depending on where you are travelling this winter, the activities involved and your general health. Those travelling abroad should aim to get their vaccinations at least six weeks before to help ensure they are fully protected ahead of departure. However, don't worry if you're travelling sooner than this, as your pharmacist may still be able to help.

The Boots Travel Vaccinations and Health Advice Service is available in selected UK stores and can be accessed to help provide protection against diseases such as chikungunya, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, meningitis and malaria.

The latest addition to our vaccinations and health advice service is the Chikungunya Vaccination, available in more than 270 stores across the UK.

Chikungunya is a viral, mosquito-borne infection related to overseas travel in Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Symptoms often include a Malaria vaccine sudden onset of fever, accompanied by joint and muscle pain.

While most people recover fully within one to two weeks, joint pain can persist for months or even years.

You can access The Boots Quick Check Tool at boots.​com to help understand the health risks of the country that you might be visiting and what vaccinations or antimalarials you may want to consider.

2 STAY SUN-SAFE

Wearing sunscreen daily is important all year round, particularly when the sun is stronger and if you're travelling abroad. A minimum of SPF30 is 2 recommended for all skin tones, increasing to SPF50 for those with sensitive skin, anyone travelling to hotter climates and for children. It's also important to ensure your sunscreen has a high level of UVA protection. Always check the UVA rating when purchasing sunscreen.