It’s that time of the year again! When your patients plan to escape the cold winter in
Australia to enjoy the warm embrace of EURO summer. Whether your patients are
exploring the historic streets of Rome or lounging on the scenic beaches of Greece, its
important to prioritise health and well-being during travel. Here are some tips to consider
before setting off.

1. Medication Supply.

Advise your patients to ensure they have adequate supply of their medications to last the
duration of their trip. It’s a good idea to recommend taking extra, in case of any unexpected
delays or emergencies. Remind your patients to plan ahead, and give their doctors and
pharmacists plenty of time to organise prescriptions and stock before they travel. Help
patients with storage and handling of medications, especially when it comes to refrigerated
medicines. Supplying a fridge pack from the supplier or a small esky patients can transport
medications to and from travel.

2. Sun protection.

Europe’s summer sun can be intense, so it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of sun
protection. Advise your patients to pack high SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to ensure
sun safety. Educate them about the risks of sunburn and heatstroke, and encourage them to
find a spot under a colourful umbrella while they enjoy the scenery, and maybe a vino.

3. Water & food safety

Discuss the significance of drinking clean and safe water while travelling. In countries where
the water quality may differ from what your patients are accustomed to, advise them to
drink bottled water, and steer clear of tap water and ice cubes. It may be beneficial for
patients to carry oral rehydration salts to help combat the heat and post soirée
rejuvenation. Offer advice on travellers’ diarrhoea prevention, including hand hygiene and
being cautious with food choices.

4. Vaccinations

Look into travel vaccine advice for certain destinations, and advise patients to speak with
their healthcare provider. Have a discussion with patients on the risk and benefits of these
vaccines.

As a pharmacist, it’s crucial to prioritise the health and well-being of your customers,
especially when it comes to holiday preparations. Remember, being proactive and
knowledgeable in offering advice to patients can help ensure they have a memorable and
safe summer adventure