World Cup 2014: What you need to know if you're off to Brazil

Thousands of football fans from across the North West will be travelling to Brazil for the World Cup in less than a month.

Liverpool's School of Tropical Medicine is preparing to vaccinate thousands of fans from Merseyside and across the North West against potentially dangerous diseases they could bring back from Brazil.

England will face Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica in the group stages in Manaus, Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte in June.

Experts say the risks are different in each location and of the three, the sticky climate of Manaus, is expected to present the most health hazards.

So, if you are heading out there, what do you need to know?

HEALTH ADVICE

Public Health England say anyone travelling out to the World Cup should, ideally, seek advice about vaccines four weeks before you go.

However, even if you are travelling last minute, it is not too late to get advice. Some vaccines can be given at short notice and antimalarial tablets, if needed, can be started just before travel, including on the day you travel.

Malaria is a serious, potentially fatal, illness spread by night biting mosquitoes. Antimalarial tablets are recommended if you are going to any Amazon areas. This includes the city of Manaus in Brazil.

There is a risk of yellow fever in many parts of Brazil, so you might need to get advice on whether you need vaccine from a yellow fever vaccination centre.

To find out where your local yellow fever vaccination centres is, click here.

MORE TIPS

• It is hot. Carry a bottle of water if outdoors for a long period of time

• Alcohol plus sun can quickly lead to dehydration

• Never accept drinks from strangers and do not leave your drink unattended at any time

In case of an accident or emergency, you will be taken to a public emergency hospital where you will be seen by a doctor; this is usually free but longer term treatment will carry a charge.