UK travellers putting health at risk
Britons taking advantage of last-minute deals to tropical destinations could be putting their health at risk
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Monday, 11, May 2009 08:11
Britons taking advantage of last-minute deals to tropical destinations could be putting their health at risk, new research claims.
A survey published to coincide with Malaria Awareness Week today found 64 per cent of people think about issues such as buying new clothes and looking good rather than seeking travel health advice on diseases such as malaria.
Of those questioned, only 27 per cent said they would consider seeking health advice before travelling, with those aged between 16 and 24 even more concerned with having fun (78 per cent) rather than seeking advice (four per cent).
The research claims nearly one in ten UK travellers visiting a malaria hotspot will never think about the risk of contracting the disease or seek medical advice prior to travelling abroad. The survey also revealed that out of those who have already visited countries with a malaria risk, one in four did not take antimalarials on their last visit.
Commenting on the results, Jane Chiodini, from Travel Health Nurse said: "It is extremely concerning that travellers are putting their health at risk because they are far more concerned with having fun on holiday.
"By taking simple precautions, malaria is preventable, and taking precautions will ensure a happy and safe holiday. Sacrificing your health by not taking essential advice can ruin your entire trip."
Today's survey also uncovered UK travellers' lack of knowledge about malaria-risk countries. Less than half of those surveyed were aware that Thailand and the Dominican Republic have a malaria risk, despite Thailand being the most popular destination for travellers in 2008-2009.
Frances Tuke, representative of the Travel Association, ABTA, added: "The survey results are particularly worrying as this year we have seen an increase in people booking last minute holidays, mainly due to the strong Euro against a weak pound making long-haul travel to tropical destinations particularly attractive.'
"Malaria is increasingly a major health concern for British travellers who are travelling further afield. What's worrying about the results of this survey is not only the ignorance that exists around the countries that carry a risk of malaria, but the fact that travellers' priorities are fixed on trivial matters such as buying new clothes rather then seeking travel health advice."