Bites & stings
20 March 2008
Getting a bite from a mosquito or a sting from a wasp is not nice to say the least. In the UK most bites and stings are harmless, but when you are abroad you need to be aware of other insects and animals that might sting or bite.
Before you travel
Seek advice well before you travel from your GP to see if there are any vaccinations that you will require for the country that you are visiting.
When you are there
Take great care where you are walking and take advice locally from where is safe to walk and swim.
Be aware that you can get diseases if stung or bitten whilst abroad. Always seek medical attention if you are licked or bitten.
Getting help
It is a good idea to keep a list of important telephone numbers with you, in case of an emergency. These should include:
- the local emergency services number,
- the representative of the travel company you booked your visit with,
- your travel insurer, and
- the British consulate in the area you are visiting.
You should also keep a list of family and friends numbers, in case the British consular representatives need to contact them. It may also be wise to take a mobile phone for emergencies if you have one; check with your service provider to see if they operate in the country you intend to visit, and which areas of the country they cover.
If your trip involves travel to developing countries, try not to travel to rural or isolated areas without a reliable guide who will know how to get help if it is needed. If you have to travel on your own, it is useful to know a few words of the local language, for example, ‘help’, ‘doctor’ and ‘hospital’.
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