London-based The Smart Clinics is urging patients to think about their health preparations for travel in good time for holidays; as new figures have shown that imported malaria infections have increased by 9% since last year.
It is surprising just how many people overlook health issues within their travel plans, or leave immunisations until the last minute. Forgetting or delaying these simple measures can expose patients to health risks when travelling to more exotic locations.
Statistics, published by Public Health England (PHE) for World Malaria Day show a clear rise in confirmed cases
- 1,501 in 2013
- 1,378 in 2012
- 9% increase
- 79% caused by Plasomodium falciparum, a more severe form of malaria which is acquired in Africa
Dr Jane Jones, representing Public Health England, said:
“The proportion of cases who have not taken appropriate antimalarials remains high.”
Malaria can be fatal. However, when anti-malarial pills are taken properly, Malaria is almost completely preventable.
Travel Clinic London
The Smart Clinics nurses and GPs offer comprehensive travel health services in London at their Brompton and Wandsworth clinics.
Based on the latest guidelines, up to date advice can be given as to which immunisations and preparations are required, as well as whether the area patients are visiting is at risk of malaria. Immunisations available include:
- Diptheria
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Japanese Encephalitis
- Malaria
- Meningococcal
- Polio
- Rabies
- Tetanus
- Tick-Borne Encephalitis
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
About The Smart Clinics
The Smart Clinics is a private healthcare company established in 2013, offering a membership-based alternative to NHS care for individuals and families.
The company brings together a host of medical professionals offering patients high quality health services in a choice of clinics – Brompton Cross and Wandsworth.
Vital health services include GPs, travel clinic, sexual health, skin treatments, sleep clinic, psychology, physiotherapy and much more. There are also a range of children’s services available, including immunisation and health visitors. In addition, complementary therapies include acupuncture and chinese medicine.
For more information contact us on membership@thesmartclinics.co.uk or call 020 7052 0070.