WHAT TO DO IF YOU FALL ILL ON A BUSINESS TRIP

As flu seasons descends, it's wise to plan ahead

- WORDS FELICITY COUSINS

WE ALL KNOW the feeling. You open your eyes and realise no matter what you have planned for the day, you just can't get out of bed. You've been struck down with a virus, have a toothache so bad you can't see straight or have fallen foul of a stomach bug. Now imagine you aren't at home - but on a business trip in an unfamiliar location.

For medical emergencies, you can call the local emergency number, while most large organisations have a travel risk management company to handle serious situations. But what happens if your case is not an emergency, and all you can do is pull the duvet back over your head?

Ben Cooper, an independent consultant advising companies on travel risks and safety policies, says some travel risk management firms can deal with the more minor ailments such as flu or toothache. Support, however, would be largely over the phone - organising a doctor appointment, or helping with the nearest place to source medicine. Unfortunately, you will still have to get out of bed to help yourself. Nonetheless, Cooper says: "Knowing this service exists is still a huge comfort. A doctor can reassure you about your symptoms, keep in touch, speak to your employer and potentially arrange a home visit."

Prevention is better than cure