Heading to festivals across the South West this summer? Here's how to stay safe

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West is urging festival-goers to make the most of the summer while staying safe, particularly when it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and weather-related illness.

Stay safe in the heat

UKHSA has issued a yellow heat health alert for the South West, in place from 9am on Friday 24 July until 9am on Sunday 26 July, covering the opening weekend of WOMAD. The South West has already experienced significant heat this summer, and festivals in July and August can be particularly demanding on the body, with long days, physical activity and alcohol all adding to the effects of warm weather.

A yellow heat health alert means that vulnerable groups, including older people and those with pre-existing health conditions, are at increased risk, and health and social care services may see greater demand. But hot weather can affect anyone, and festival-goers of all ages should take sensible precautions.

Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and drinking regularly throughout the day. Apply sun cream, wear a hat and seek shade between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest. Limit alcohol intake, especially in direct sunlight.

Look out for one another too. Signs of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, pale or clammy skin, rapid breathing or pulse, a temperature of 38°C or above, and feeling very thirsty. If you or someone around you has these symptoms, move to a cool shaded place, rest and rehydrate. If symptoms haven't improved after 30 minutes, seek help from the medical teams on site.

Keep bugs at bay

Norovirus is a real festival hazard; it spreads easily between people and via contaminated surfaces, so regular handwashing makes a real difference. Carry hand sanitiser and use it often. If you are preparing food at a campsite, wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly and make sure meat is cooked all the way through.

Measles is also still circulating, and large festival crowds are exactly the kind of environment where it can spread quickly. If you haven't had two doses of the MMRV vaccine, it's not too late to check with your GP before you go. If you develop a rash, high temperature or cold-like symptoms, please stay at home and call NHS 111.

Sexual health

Cases of STIs remain a concern in the South West. While gonorrhoea diagnoses fell significantly in the region last year, syphilis cases among heterosexual men and women rose, diverging from the improving national picture. Condoms are the best protection against STIs; use one with new or casual partners. Testing is free and confidential, and you should get tested even if you have no symptoms, as many people don't. Visit www.gov.uk/sexual-health to find your nearest service or order a free home testing kit.

Be aware that mpox continues to circulate. Anyone who develops unusual rashes or lesions should contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health service for advice before attending a healthcare setting in person.

Elizabeth Smout, Regional Deputy Director for Health Protection at UKHSA, said:

"Festivals and big summer events are what so many of us live for, and we absolutely want people to enjoy them to the full. By keeping hands clean, staying hydrated and being sensible in the heat, you can enjoy the festivities and keep illness at bay.

"With a yellow heat health alert in place for the South West this weekend, we are particularly urging WOMAD attendees to take the heat seriously. Keep drinking water, stay out of direct sun during the hottest parts of the day and check in on anyone around you who might be more vulnerable.

"Norovirus is the one bug that can really derail a festival trip; it spreads easily between people and via contaminated surfaces, so regular handwashing really does make a difference.

"We're also asking people, particularly gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men, to be aware of mpox symptoms, especially after meeting new sexual partners. Early awareness and prompt action make all the difference.

"Measles is also circulating, and festivals bring together large crowds where it can spread quickly. If you haven't had two doses of the MMRV vaccine, it's not too late to check with your GP before you go, and if you develop a rash, high temperature or cold-like symptoms, please stay at home and call NHS 111."

Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health at Wiltshire Council, said:

“With thousands of people heading to festivals over the coming weeks, we’re encouraging everyone to enjoy themselves while looking after their health and the people they’re with.

“Large crowds, long days and hot weather can all have an impact on our health, while infections can spread more easily when lots of people come together. Being aware of the risks means you’re better placed to recognise when something isn’t right and act early.

“Make sure that you take a look at the health advice before you go, keep an eye on how you and your friends