DoH warns against taking unknown drugs

Britons are being urged not to consume medication bought over the counter when abroad if they do not understand the labelling.

A survey released by the Department of Health (DoH) revealed 50 per cent of holidaymakers have been ill or injured while away, but 35 per cent of these have delayed treatment until they returned home.

The research also unearthed a number of UK citizens have purchased drugs in pharmacies and taken them without knowing what they truly are due to language barriers.

“Nobody should ever take any medicines ? if they don’t understand the labelling, dosing guidance or warnings on side-effects,” commented GMTV’s resident GP Dr Hilary Jones.

He also voiced concern over the number of people who “needlessly” put their own wellbeing at risk by putting off medical attention until they are back in Britain.

A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can provide access to reduced cost or free treatment while visiting the continent and Dr Jones urged travellers to ensure they have up-to-date documentations before going on holiday.

Earlier this month, the DoH warned there may be up to three million people with an invalid EHIC by the end of the month.