Health Vaccination for Travellers

Every winter, parents across the UK face the same question: should my child get the flu jab? With flu season bringing discomfort and risk, understanding the flu vaccine’s safety is key to protecting young ones from serious illness.   In this guide, we will learn how safe the flu vaccine is for children and teenagers and why it’s an important step in keeping families healthy. Understanding the Flu Vaccine for Children The flu vaccine helps protect against strains of influenza expected to circulate each year. It’s offered free through the NHS for children aged 2 or 3, all school-aged children up to Year 11, and those aged 6 months to 17 with long-term health conditions. It’s usually given as a quick, painless nasal spray, with an injectable version available for those who cannot have the spray. According to NHS and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data, vaccinating children significantly reduces the spread of flu within families and schools. Why Children and Teenagers Need the ...

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection, particularly among children. It can spread quickly, so prompt and proper treatment is essential to prevent complications and further transmission. In this guide, we will discuss two commonly referenced topical options: mupirocin (available in the UK) and ozenoxacin (used internationally but not included in NHS first-line guidance), comparing their effectiveness, speed, and resistance to help you make an informed choice. Understanding Impetigo and Its Common Symptoms Impetigo usually appears as red sores or blisters around the mouth, nose, hands, or legs. These burst and form a characteristic golden crust. While it can affect anyone, children under ten are most at risk due to close contact in schools or nurseries. According to the NHS, mild impetigo often clears within a week or two, but medical treatment helps speed recovery and reduces contagiousness. Recognising impetigo symptoms early ensures quicker management and prevents spread wit...

Insect bites are a normal part of summer, from mosquito nibbles to midge stings. While most heal on their own, some can develop into insect bite infections that require medical attention.     In this post, we will look at how these infections occur and when antibiotics are actually necessary . With growing concern about antibiotic resistance, it’s important to understand the proper use of these medicines. How Do Insect Bites Lead to Infection? An insect bite breaks the skin barrier, allowing bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes to enter. This can cause redness, swelling, or pus, the first signs of a developing infection . When symptoms progress, it’s important to know what to look for and when to seek help. Common Signs of an Infected Bite A bite that becomes increasingly painful, red, or warm to touch could signal infection. An infected mosquito bite may ooze fluid or form a small crust, particularly if scratched repeatedly. When to Seek Medica...