When planning your holiday find out what vaccinations/immunisations are needed, as people with a lowered immune system are not advised to have live vaccines.  Check with your doctor before booking.

Take care when eating and drinking abroad:

• Only drink bottled water
• Avoid ice unless made with safe/bottled water
• Eat freshly cooked food that is still hot
• Be careful with dairy foods, such as ice cream, from unreliable sources like street sellers and kiosks
• Peel fruit
• Avoid raw vegetables and salad
• Avoid food exposed to flies.
• Take care when eating shellfish as it may contain harmful bacteria.

Avoid insect and animal bites:

• Use insect repellents; ask your pharmacist about repellents made with natural products.  Wear appropriate clothing to cover up when outside.

Lymphoedema sufferers

• If you suffer with lymphoedema (swelling or fluid collection in a limb) ask your doctor about getting some antibiotics that you may need to take if you are bitten.

Animal bites:

• If bitten by an animal, seek medical help immediately.

 Further assistance:

• Some charities and organisations can offer financial or practical assistance with holidays for disabled people and for families of children with cancer.  Please ask at the Robert Ogden Centre on 0113 206 6498 for further details.