Officials have released new advice today, Friday, July 17
A person as their passport scanned whilst using an Automated European Union Entry/Exit System (EES) kiosk(Image: AFP/Getty)
New guidance has been issued for UK holidaymakers travelling to Portugal. Officials have reminded visitors to check the rules before packing prescription medicines.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice, warning some medicines commonly prescribed or purchased in the UK are subject to different regulations in Portugal.
Travellers are being urged to take enough medication to last their entire trip, as UK prescriptions are not recognised in Portugal. Anyone carrying prescription medication should keep it in its original packaging with the pharmacy label clearly visible.
The FCDO also highlights that Portugal has strict rules on dispensing certain medicines, including antibiotics. If visitors need a repeat prescription while abroad, they will have to attend a local health centre or a hospital accident and emergency department, where they may be required to pay for treatment and medication.
Most medicines in Portugal can only be obtained from pharmacies, although some over-the-counter products are also available from health stores in supermarkets and shopping centres.
The Algarve in Portugal(Image: FHMFHM/Getty Images)
The updated advice also reminds travellers to check official guidance before flying, as changes to routine, hot weather and dietary differences can affect how some medications work.
Holidaymakers are also encouraged to carry a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which can provide access to medically necessary state healthcare during a stay in Portugal.
However, the FCDO stresses a GHIC or EHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. The cards do not cover costs such as medical repatriation to the UK, private healthcare, non-urgent treatment, or expenses linked to cancelled or changed travel plans.
The latest advice forms part of the government’s ongoing updates to help British travellers prepare before heading overseas this summer.
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