With eight weeks to go until schools break up for the summer holidays, Boots Superintendent Pharmacist, Claire Nevinson, shares her top three health tips for families this summer.
- Get vaccinated
“For those going abroad, you may want to consider accessing the Boots Travel Vaccination and Health Advice Service* to help protect your health. Travel jabs and antimalarials may be recommended depending on where someone is travelling to, the activities involved and the general health of the individual. Those travelling abroad should aim to get their vaccinations at least six to eight 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 local pharmacist may still be able to help. The Boots Quick Check Tool, can also help understand the health risks of the country that you might be visiting and what vaccinations you may want to consider.”
- Stay sun safe
“Wearing SPF daily is important all year round, particularly during the summer when the sun is stronger. A minimum of SPF30 is 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 UV protection. Always check the UVA rating when purchasing sunscreen. The full Soltan range offers uncompromised 5* UVA protection and no longer produces sunscreen lower than SPF50 for children and SPF15 for adults.
“Additionally, our eyes can be sensitive to UV damage and exposing our eyes could have damaging long-term effects. By wearing sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection, you can help shield your eyes and preserve your vision for years to come. Visit Boots Opticians for more information on UV protection and to shop the full 100% protection UVA and UVB range.
“Other measures can be taken to help protect yourself from the sun this year including wearing clothes that cover your arms and legs and sunglasses with wraparound lenses. You should try to avoid the sun when it is at its strongest, this is usually between 11am and 3pm in the UK.”
- Pack the key healthcare essentials
“Don’t forget to buy healthcare essentials like first aid kits and insect repellent well ahead of your holiday so they are ready to pack alongside your items. Mosquitoes usually bite between dusk and dawn and are attracted to humans by our body heat and smell. Products containing DEET** have been found to be most effective and are available in sprays, roll-ons, sticks and creams.
"First aid kits like the Boots Travel First Aid Kit £12, include key healthcare essentials such as plasters, adhesive tape, scissors and safety pins.
“You can also consider packing antihistamines if you are an allergy sufferer. These can also help reduce itching and inflammation if you were to be bitten by an insect.”
*Eligibility criteria and charges apply. Available in selected pharmacies, subject to availability. A Travel Health Service consultation fee applies.
** Use biocides safely. Always read the label before use. Use only as directed. For external use only.