Residents planning to head to Haiti to help relief efforts have been told to take appropriate measures to protect their health.

The Chief Medical Officer cautioned that all health care professionals and others heading to the country devastated by an earthquake last week should only travel to the country as part of an organised relief effort.

He added that they should also be self-sufficient and ensure their vaccines are up to date.

Dr. Cann said: "In addition, individuals should be aware of the risk of insect borne diseases including malaria and dengue and other conditions such as tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. Individuals should be informed of the necessary steps to protect against such conditions."

The Department of Health will hold special travel clinics to provide immunisations and advice for those travelling to Haiti to assist with organised relief efforts.

Arrangements to attend the workshops can be made by contacting the Department of Health.