Should you travel with new Covid variants on the rise? ‘Take precautions’ urges pharmacist
With the rise of new Covid variants and Covid cases on the rise, a pharmacist advised whether travelling across the UK or abroad is safe right now.
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It's crucial to stay informed about the latest COVID-19 developments when considering whether to travel, especially those who are at risk of health complications.
Covid hotspots have been identified across the UK, as the number of Covid infections and hospital admissions have been increasing week-on-week.
While there are currently no travel restrictions in place, Deputy Superintendent Pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, George Sandhu, advised: "We know that Covid cases are on the rise. It’s important that people who are at particular risk of complications take precautions to protect themselves against infection."
It's recommended to keep up-to-date on current Covid case rates in the specific regions you intend to visit.
Precautionary measures could include not travelling to certain areas where case rates are high, Sandhu said.
He does recognise, however, that in some circumstances travelling to a Covid hotspot "might be unavoidable".
Thus, a good protective measure is to wear a mask when out and about, Sandu confirmed.
What about travelling abroad?
Sandhu said if people are planning to travel abroad, they should check the government’s Foreign Travel Advice website for any Covid-specific advice.
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Sandhu advised those most vulnerable to the virus to take lateral flow tests with them as a precautionary measure, which are still for sale in pharmacies.
Another top tip is to check if your travel insurance covers you if you contract Covid.
Sandhu added: "Far and away the biggest thing people at higher risk should do to protect themselves, however, is to get a Covid booster jab as soon as they are invited by the NHS.
"These invites have been going out for a few weeks now, and pharmacies across the UK are helping deliver them."
Sandu urged all those eligible to get jabbed now to protect yourself this winter.
He also recommended people get their flu jab at the same time for extra protection.
Eligible groups for the Covid booster include:
- People over the age of 65
- All care home residents
- Those who are clinically vulnerable.
People who are registered to a doctor's clinic should be informed if they are eligible for the jab.
