Travel Clinic In Harrow
North London

Travel Risk Assessment

During you travel consultation, a travel nurse will discuss you upcoming travel plans including departure date, planned destinations, brief information on planned activities and excursions and accommodation. Your vaccination history, medical history and current medications will also be assessed. This information allows the nurse to conduct a detailed risk assessment of your trip in order to advise you on what you will require to ensure you remain safe, fit and well when away.

Travel Advice

Following a detailed travel risk assessment, your travel nurse will formulate an individualised travel health plan which will include recommendations on vaccinations, medication and general travel advice. The nurse will highlight any health risks relevant to you and those relevant to your destination including safe food and water hygiene, biting insects and ticks, mosquito bite prevention, any recent disease outbreaks and public health alerts. 

Malaria

Malaria is a serious tropical disease spread by mosquitos and is a significant risk in some countries. Whilst there is currently no vaccine available to protect against Malaria, risk of disease can be significantly reduced with medication known as antimalarial tablets which are taken before travelling into a high risk area, throughout your stay and for a period of time after leaving.  There are a number of malaria medications available and your travel nurse can provide advice on the most suitable medication for you depending on your destination, risk of exposure and medical history. It is advisable to arrange a travel consultation to discuss the risk of contracting malaria on your trip and the risks and benefits of medication before making your decision. 

Travel Certificate Advice

Some countries require a certificate as proof of vaccination status for a range of conditions before entry is permitted. In some situations, failure to provide this can result in forced quarantine, the option of vaccination at the border which often incurs significant charges, fines or entry into the country being denied. As part of your travel health assessment, the travel nurse will review your itinerary and advise on any certificate requirements for your planned destinations. They will then advise whether vaccination is required or a medical exemption letter can be issued.  

We also provide advice, vaccination and certificates of vaccination proof for individuals travelling specifically for Hajj/Umrah. 

If you have had a vaccination previously but have lost the certificate of proof, please contact the health centre for advice on whether your certificate can be re-issued (charges apply) or if revaccination is advisable. 

Altitude

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness, is caused by travelling to areas of high altitude, commonly 2,500 meters or higher above sea level where air pressure and oxygen levels are lower, faster than your body can adapt to the environment. 

Altitude sickness can range from mild symptoms to severe illness. Age, sex, fitness levels or past medical history have no impact on your risk of developing or avoiding the condition. If your travel plans include travel to areas of high altitude and you are concerned about your risk, our GP’s would be happy to see you for a consultation to assess your risk and issue medication should they feel this is safe and appropriate

Travel Vaccinations

Travel vaccinations are an effective and necessary way of protecting against a range of infectious and diseases found in different countries across the world. Whilst some conditions can be treated and vaccination given after exposure, global vaccine shortages and inconsistent and unequipped medical facilities in some destinations can make access to appropriate care difficult and extremely costly. Pre-travel vaccinations are the most effective way to reduce the risk of health or treatment issues when away.