Nobody wants to get ill on holiday. That’s why most of us get organised with EHIC cover which allows us to access state healthcare in Europe on the same basis as residents of that country, or take out additional travel insurance to get us home for treatment in an emergency. The old saying though is that prevention is better than cure, so maximise the chances of your EHIC remaining safely in your wallet by following a few sensible tips.

Immunisations

If you are staying in the main tourist resorts in countries such as Greece, France or Italy, you will not need any additional travel immunisations, assuming you are up to date with everything you should have had as a child. If you’re venturing off the beaten track, and especially to Eastern European countries such as Bulgaria, Poland or Russia, you might be recommended to have the Hepatitis A vaccination. Get advice online, or from the practice nurse at your doctor’s surgery.

Sunscreen

Every year some people underestimate the strength of the sun overseas, and end up with a serious case of sunburn as a result. If you do get burned, mild cases can be treated by having a cool shower, drinking plenty of fluids and covering up the affected area until it has healed. If the skin starts to blister, if you start to feel sick and dizzy or if your temperature rises above 38C, you’ll need to seek medical attention. Remember to use your EHIC cover which will entitle you to be seen by a GP, health centre or at an A&E under the state healthcare provider of the country concerned.

Food and Water

Food hygiene standards overseas are not always the same as they are in the UK, and the combination of a relaxed attitude to eating and warmer temperatures means food poisoning is a real risk. Try to eat food which is freshly prepared and piping hot rather than something prepared in advance and left sitting at room temperature. Be especially cautious with “riskier” foods such as chicken and prawns. If you do fall ill, most cases of food poisoning are mild and will pass in a few hours. Keep drinking water until you feel ready to start eating again. If the person affected is very young, elderly, or has underlying medical conditions, seek medical attention using your EHIC cover as soon as you can.

Alcohol

Overindulging on holiday is a common problem, especially when alcohol is cheap and plentiful. It’s easy to get carried away, and it’s no surprise that alcohol is the root cause of many trips, falls and accidents while on holiday. What many travellers don’t realise is that many travel insurance policies have clauses allowing them to get out of paying medical bills after an alcohol induced accident. EHIC will cover you if you have a bit too much to drink and then fall over, as long as you have your wits about you and remember to present your card and passport when admitted to the state hospital.