Travelling With Children: Our Top Tips

Travelling with children can be a thrilling adventure, opening young minds to diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences. However, it also comes with a set of unique challenges, especially when it comes to safeguarding their health. As you plan your family’s next getaway, it’s crucial to prioritise health considerations and ensure your children are protected against potential health risks, including through appropriate vaccinations.

Health Considerations for Travelling with Children

Consultation with a Healthcare Professional

Before embarking on your journey, schedule a consultation with one of our pharmacists who specialises in travel medicine. They can offer personalised advice based on your destination, duration of stay, and your child’s medical history. This is particularly important if you’re travelling to regions with specific health risks such as tropical diseases or high-altitude destinations.

Pack a Comprehensive First Aid Kit

Include essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, thermometers, over-the-counter medications for common ailments like fever and pain, and any prescription medications your child may need. Additionally, carry any specific medications for allergies or chronic conditions your child may have.

Hydration and Nutrition

Maintaining proper hydration and nutrition is essential, especially in unfamiliar environments. Encourage your children to drink plenty of water, and pack nutritious snacks to keep their energy levels up during excursions.

Sun Protection

Children’s delicate skin is particularly vulnerable to sunburn and long-term sun damage. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing to shield them from the sun’s harmful rays.

Insect Protection

Insect bites can not only be irritating but also transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Use insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin, and consider clothing treated with permethrin for added protection.

Adequate Rest

Travelling can be exhausting, especially for young children. Ensure they get enough rest by sticking to their regular sleep schedule as much as possible and allowing time for relaxation between activities.

Children’s Travel Vaccines

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect against infectious diseases while travelling. Here are some essential vaccines to consider for your child before embarking on your journey:

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure your child is up-to-date with routine vaccinations recommended by their healthcare provider. These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

Travel-Specific Vaccines

Depending on your destination, your child may require additional vaccines to protect against region-specific diseases. Some common travel vaccines for children include:

• Hepatitis A: This vaccine is recommended for travel to regions with poor sanitation and hygiene standards.
• Typhoid: Protects against typhoid fever, which is transmitted through contaminated food and water.
• Yellow Fever: Required for travel to certain countries in Africa and South America where yellow fever is endemic.
• Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended for travel to rural areas of Asia, especially during the transmission season.

COVID-19 Vaccination

It’s crucial to ensure that both you and your child are fully vaccinated against the virus before travelling. Keep abreast of any travel restrictions or entry requirements imposed by your destination country related to COVID-19 vaccination.

Malaria Prophylaxis

If you’re travelling to a region where malaria is prevalent, consult with your healthcare provider about the appropriate malaria prophylaxis for your child’s age and weight. In addition to medication, use insect repellents and mosquito nets to further reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

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Travelling with children can be a rewarding experience, enriching their lives with new perspectives and memories to cherish. By prioritising their health and ensuring they receive the necessary vaccinations and precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable journey together. Remember to plan ahead, visit our travel clinic, and stay informed about any health risks specific to your destination. With careful preparation, you can embark on your family adventure with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your child’s well-being. Safe travels!

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This blog was written on behalf of Leicester Travel Clinics by Pharmacy Mentor.