From infected blisters to trench foot and sunstroke after one cider – what you need to know before heading to the fields
With over 200,000 people expected at Glastonbury this week, a UK first aid trainer has issued a warning about the most common – and most overlooked – health risks that can turn a weekend of music into a medical nightmare.
Sarah Jefferies, First Aid Trainer at Emergency First Aid At Work Course, says many festival goers underestimate just how quickly health issues can spiral in the open-air environment of Worthy Farm.
“You’re in a field, miles from your normal routine – sleep-deprived, drinking more, washing less, walking constantly – all in unpredictable weather. It’s the perfect storm for health issues, and most people aren’t prepared for how fast a blister, sunburn, or dodgy pint can take them out.”
Lesser-Known Festival Health Risks:
- Trench foot – Prolonged time in wet socks or muddy shoes can lead to skin breakdown and infection
- Heatstroke in overcast weather – UV rays still cause damage through cloud cover, especially when drinking
- Blister infections from fashion choices – Canvas trainers and long days on foot are a recipe for trouble
- Dizzy spells from energy drinks – Combining caffeine and alcohol in the sun increases risk
- Toilet-related rashes and UTIs – Holding it too long, poor hygiene and dehydration raise your chances
Festival First Aid: Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Pack blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and rehydration salts
- Bring proper boots or wellies – plus extra socks
- Apply SPF every morning, even if it’s cloudy
- Eat something substantial before drinking
- Know where the first aid tents and exits are
Don’t:
- Walk barefoot around the campsite – even inside your tent
- Rely solely on alcohol for hydration
- Ignore cuts, scrapes or bites – clean and cover them early
- Put off asking for medical help
- Eat from food stalls that look unhygienic or poorly maintained
“We’ve seen people hospitalised from wearing the wrong shoes or not drinking enough water,” Sarah adds. “These aren’t dramatic festival disasters – they’re everyday issues that hit harder when you’re outdoors, far from your routine, and pushing your limits all weekend.”