Tonya First Aid for travellers page

• Deet content bug sprays

The best bug sprays around are the ones that contain some Deet. Life systems do some really good ones that you can purchase from camping or travel shops. There have been many studies done on DEET and it has been found to be both very safe and effective at preventing bug bites. Besides DEET repellents, there are many other products on the market that claim to protect you from bites. The bottom line, though, is that none offer you the same amount of protection as a product that contains DEET, and DEET products are safe to use on children. article on deet bug sprays I have also read that since DEET is a pesticide you should be careful about putting it on your skin so if you have kids then read up on DEET. medical article

• Citronella Oil.

I bought this in boots and was told it was great to keep the bugs off. I bought a tiny spray travel plastic bottle and mixed the oil with water using it as a spray. It makes you smell but it worked for me and I was glad I didnt end up with all the red bits everyone else got. ! You will need to ask for it at the pharmacy desk as they keep it in bottles.

• Betadine Antiseptic Lotion.

Everyone should have a bottle in the house so take some away. Its iodine based and used to clean wounds in hospitals. I had it used on me when I put my hand into a fan and had my finger cut open and when I stood on a nail. Both wounds healed clean and fast even in the heat.

• Aspirin or nonaspirin pain reliever

Take nurofen if you can, cocodamol and dont forget half an asperin can be good before your flight (especially long haul) to stop blood clotting.

• Anti-diarrhea medication

Wow I was so glad I had this at times. Especially diving!

• Antacid (for upset stomach)

Obvious really. Remember it takes a while to adjust to a different climate, water, food all these things can affect your stomach at the start of your trip.

• Rescue Remedy Cream

Bachs rescue cream was amazingly good for stings, cuts and burns. I was very glad I had taken two tubes.

• Ralgex

Aches and pains. Twisting a muscle while travelling can be really awkward.

http://wywy.essortment.com/basicfirstai_rffc.htm (what to put in a first aid kit)

http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/ (especially good if you have kids travelling)

The Masta website. Travel health advice, up to date information on immunisations, antimalaria and includes a travel shop to purchase great bug sprays etc. http://www.masta.org/