Advice on the best means of protecting your health when travelling
GP Visit: Attend your doctor or travel medicine centre eight to 12 weeks before departure if you will be away for longer than six weeks; four-six weeks before departure if you will be away for two-four weeks.
Check websites: Irish Society of Travel Medicine's website (www.istm.ie) has links to the World Health Organisation's travel advice and other reputable websites. The Tropical Medical Bureau also has a website (www.tmb.ie) with general advice. The Health Protection Surveillance Centre's website also includes travel advice.
All travellers regardless or destination should:
Wash hands frequently and thoroughly.
Only drink water from sources you trust - in some countries tap water, which may be used for ice, is not recommended.
In relation to food, boil it, cook it, peel it, or don't eat it.
Avoid insect bites - various illnesses are caused by the bites of mosquitoes, ticks and sandflies. Cover exposed skin areas and use insect repellent. Mosquitoes bite at any time of day but most bites occur in the evening, and they are likely to be found near water.
Ensure sterile equipment is used in ear piercing, tattooing, acupuncture, manicure and shaving with open razors and never share needles.
Condoms do not provide complete protection from risks associated with casual sex.