A TRAVEL clinic offering everything from immunisations through to advice on political unrest abroad is about to enter one of its busiest times of the year.

The Great Western Hospital's travel clinic, run by the Occupational Health Department, is gearing up to help gap year students with their worldwide travel plans.

Amanda Pollitt, nurse adviser, from the Occupational Health department, leads the service, which aims to provide a one-stop shop offering preparation, immunisations and advice for anyone travelling overseas. A comprehensive individual risk assessment, including looking at potential travel problems, identifying the higher risk traveller and targeting health education, is undertaken which can significantly minimise travel risks.

Amanda said: "Since extending our service to the general public, the travel clinic has grown considerably.

"Each consultation is unique and tailored to the specific itinerary and needs of the individual in a calm and unrushed setting."

Immunisation against exotic diseases such as Yellow Fever is just one aspect the service offers to travellers.

All travellers will be asked about their destination, length of stay and intended activities whether they intend to relax by the pool or climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Previous vaccination history and recommended immunisations will be discussed and administered.

General advice on preventing traveller's diarrhoea, safe sun exposure, sexual health, how to stay healthy while flying and how best to prevent insect bites- something important in reducing the risk of malaria in a lot of countries - will also be given.

The centre also provides a specially developed Travel Information Booklet so visitors can look up any information they forget.

Amanda said: "Gap year travellers tend to be young adults embarking on an adventure of a lifetime often to far flung destinations. Accidents are the biggest cause of fatalities in travellers under 50 and this group are particularly at risk."

The Trust Travel Team take particular care to highlight specific dangers, whatever the travel plans.

Amanda said: "Aspects frequently overlooked are the cultural and environmental differences when travelling and it is important to take these factors into account when considering personal safety.

"Being able to inform travellers about local laws and customs, including acceptable standards of dress and behaviour, can often prevent people from running into trouble."

For more information about the travel clinic ring the Occupational Health Department on 01793 604480.