Standfirst : The hotel's booked and you've packed enough sun block for a blissful week of sun and fun.At least that's what you hope. Before you set out, check out how to avoid entering holiday hell.

Your best friend returns from Bali looking all bronzed and relaxed, and you think to yourself, "I could do with a holiday". But before your fantasy vacation can become a reality, make sure you're protected against these diseases, or your holiday could be a total washout.

Tetanus
What is it A bacterial infection that produces a toxin which circulates in the body. This causes severe and painful muscular contractions and spasms which often lead to death through respiratory problems and exhaustion. Tetanus spores are present in soil and may be introduced into the body during injury through puncture wound, burn or minor unnoticed wounds.
Prevention:
Visit a clinic or hospital for immunisation.

Poliomyelitis (Polio)
What is it This disease is caused by a virus which is spread from person to person through either mucus from the nose and throat or by contamination of food and drink with infected faeces. Initial symptoms are fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting as the virus multiplies n the gut. The virus invades the blood stream and nervous system. Patients infect those in close contact, so they should be isolated for at least a week.
Prevention:
There is an effective vaccine available. Ten yearly boosters should be given to ensure maximum immunity and travelers should ensure polio immunisation is to date.Past infection with polio does not always give complete protection as there are three strains of the virus. As the disease is usually spread through close contact, avoid crowded places (e.g. buses, public swimming pools).

Cholera
What is it Cholera is a bacterial infection of gastro-intestinal tract caused by the bacterium Vibrio Cholerae. These bacteria are ingested by drinking water contaminated by improper sanitization or eating improperly cooked fish, especially shell fish. Symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomitting and dehydration. It can range from mild to severe and can be fatal.
Prevention:
Avoid contaminated food and water especially raw or undercooked seafood from polluted water. There is a new vaccine (Dukoral) for immunisation against cholera for people traveling to highly endemic or epidemic areas, particularly emergency relief and health workers in places that are lacking sanitation.